EFFORTS to repair an historic church near York have received a boost from the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF).

Members of St Catherine’s Church, Barmby Moor, hope to restore the roof and walls of the Grade II-listed building, which they say have suffered "serious deterioration".

The HLF has awarded St Catherine’s Parochial Church Council (PCC) £16,600 in development funding to help it apply for a full grant of £183,000 within two years.

This endorsement means the church has received a 'first-round pass' as the HLF believes the project has the potential to deliver high-quality benefits and value for lottery money.

An architect has been appointed to work on the scheme, which will be officially launched at 7.30pm on June 30.

Fiona Spiers, head of HLF Yorkshire and the Humber, said: “There is a place of worship in almost every ward, village and town across the Yorkshire and Humber region, providing a very powerful visual connection with our past.

"This award to St Catherine’s Church, Barmby Moor will ensure essential repairs are carried out, and the local school and community are able to get involved and learn about the stories and heritage of the building, helping to create a sustainable future for the church."

The project will preserve water-damaged wall paintings and create children’s activity packs along with a written history of the church and the historic links with Royal Air Force 102 Squadron.

During the Second World War, 102 Squadron, part of Bomber Command, was housed at Pocklington Airfield, which bordered the village of Barmby Moor.

The memorials of many of the men killed from 102 Squadron are found at the church.

Members say the Grade II listed building is a focal point for the local community and is well used by local groups.

The church is built on an ancient site, although only the tower and spire are medieval - the rest was rebuilt between 1850 and 52 by Robert Dennis Chantrell.

Other features in the building include two windows by distinguished stained glass artist Charles Bewsey and fine Minton tiling in the chancel.

The link there was that the vicar at the time of the rebuilding, Revd Robert Taylor, was brother-in-law to Herbert Minton.

Describing the launch event, PCC secretary Christine Morley said: "You will hear about progress and have an opportunity to ask questions and find out what is happen next, whilst enjoying a celebratory glass of wine/juice and cheese and biscuits."