'At-risk' heritage sites given funding for repairs

The Church of St Martin in Yapham needs to undergo roof, drainage and window repairs

Two churches in East Yorkshire have been given funding for repairs, after being labelled 'at-risk' by conservation experts.

St Wildfred's Church in Ottringham and the Church of St Martin in Yapham have been added to Historic England's risk register.

Both sites have been given grants by the organisation for repairs to protect and get them running again.

Officials have also confirmed another heritage site, Kexby Old Bridge, has also been removed from the register due to recent repair work.

Historic England said both churches require repairs to their roofs and drainage systems. The Church of St Martin, dating back to the 13th Century, also needs window repairs.

St Wildfred's Church in Ottringham been added to Heritage England's risk register

In total, seven sites in Yorkshire have been added to England's risk register because they are at risk of neglect, decay or inappropriate development.

At the same time, six sites have been saved and removed from the register.

Across England, there are 4,891 entries on the 2024 Heritage at Risk Register in 2024 – 20 more than in 2023.

There are now 524 entries on the Heritage at Risk Register in Yorkshire.

Duncan Wilson, chief executive of Historic England, said: “Heritage is so important to Yorkshire. It plays a vital role in our society and boosts the regional economy.

"This year, we have seen partners and communities come together to help save the historic buildings and places that need it the most. It’s inspirational to see how we can harness the power of our heritage to benefit local people across Yorkshire.

"Together, we can save our places and find new ways to enjoy the heritage that people value so much.”

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