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Clan Power Saves Historic Church in 48 Hours
26 Nov
Summary
- Couple raised £70,000 in two days to buy a historic church.
- Global donations from clan members secured the church's future.
- The church will be preserved for weddings, funerals, and events.
Applegarth Church, near Lockerbie, has been saved from potential repurposing thanks to a remarkable fundraising effort. A couple, Andrew and Kirsteen Mitchell, spearheaded a campaign that raised £70,000 in a mere two days to purchase the historic church. This rapid success was fueled by generous donations from a global network of well-wishers, particularly members of Clan Jardine.
The Mitchells initiated the fundraiser with a £15,000 contribution and were astonished by the overwhelming response, which exceeded the £55,000 asking price. The church, which closed in 2023, faced an uncertain future, having been earmarked for alternative uses. The couple has now established a registered Scottish charity, Friends of Applegarth Church, to manage the property.
This new charity will ensure the church continues to serve as a venue for significant life events, including weddings and funerals. Clan Chief Sir William Jardine is expected to attend a ceremony on November 30th to mark the official handover of the keys, celebrating the preservation of this centuries-old building which has spiritual ties to the Jardine family and dates back to 1760.
