Straffan Church Roof Appeal

Works are now complete and we want to thank all our generous supporters for their help in repairing our roof. We could not have done it without you - To celebrate the completion of the repairs we are having a Songs of Praise Service on Sunday 12th November at 3.30pm. All are welcome.

STRAFFAN CHURCH ROOF - AN URGENT APPEAL!

17th May 2017

Works have started on the roof - See Pics below

April 2017

In October 2017 Straffan Church will celebrate its 180^th anniversary. The church was  consecrated in the year 1837, having been built by the Barton family as the  estate church for what is now the K Club.

Last Autumn we realised that we had a major problem with the roof of the church when part of the main supporting roof timbers collapsed. (See Pictures below)  As a result we had to consult building professionals who informed us that the roof must be repaired as soon as possible. The cost of this work has been estimated at 30,000 Euros. We have carried out  essential interim repairs to make the building safe but a more substantial job is necessary to preserve the future of the building

Over the past decade, the parish and our small  local community have worked together to raise money and to use the limited funds available as prudently as possible to maintain  and restore this beautiful, historic building. In the light of recent events we now have to make an urgent appeal to parishioners, friends and members of the wider community in order to ensure that this building is preserved for future generations.

Do you think you might be able to contribute to our appeal? Any donation, however small, will be gratefully received and acknowledged.  However, we would be delighted if you could contribute more, for example 100 Euros, as this would mean that we could raise the necessary funds at an earlier date and commence the repairs. You may not be aware but by giving a donation of 250 Euros, the fundraising committee can claim a tax refund from the Revenue Commissioners on your behalf and at no additional cost to you.

We are hoping (funds permitting) to commence these urgent repairs in May and it would be very helpful to us if you are planning to make a donation to do so in advance of these works commencing.

We are very fortunate indeed to have this lovely church in our village. Old buildings and their antiquities link us back to our ancestors and to times past. We know that you will join with us in wishing this restoration project well. Thank you again for your generosity and we look forward to your continued support.

Yours sincerely,

Friends of Straffan Church

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Bank a/c details  and address for posting cheques:

Account name: Straffan Church Restoration Fund

Bank: AIB, Celbridge.

Sort Code: 933503

Account Number: 23892064

BIC: AIBKIE2D

IBAN: IE23AIBK93350323892064

Note: Online donations will be facilitated as soon as possible

Post to: Rev Stephen Neill, The Rectory, Maynooth Road, Celbridge, Co. Kildare

Enquiries: Rev. Stephen Neill stephen.neill@gmail.com / 01-6288231 / 087-2328172

Some pictures of the damaged roof timbers

The damage was caused by a combination of Wet Rot and Woodworm and is unfortunately not recoverable under insurance. The pictures show the timbers which fell from the roof and the condition of the wood as well as the location from where they fell away and adjacent timbers also requiring attention.