HISTORIC Chowbent Chapel needs a £110,000 facelift.
Now an appeal has been launched after a survey revealed the roof and bellcote need repair.
And the chapel's rare 96 year-old pipe organ is a victim of metal fatigue requiring a £50,000 revamp.
Other work needed at the Bolton Old Road chapel, built in 1721 on the site of an even earlier (1645) building, includes brickwork, pointing, cornice gutters, exterior painting, and a new plumbing and heating system.
Gravestones and paving slabs also need relaying.
Chowbent Minister the Rev Peter Hughes, said: "We have applied for help from National Lottery funds but we cannot rely on receiving anything.
"We need the help of our congregation and anyone else who is willing to assist. I know this is a difficult time to appeal for money after the people of Atherton have already helped with the restoration at the Parish Church.
"I hope local people will assist us too."
Anyone who feels they can contribute, either by cash donation or in any other way, should contact Peter on 01942 883268 or 01942 873956 or Jean Leigh on 01942 683306.
As the appeal gets under way Chowbent Chapel is hosting a 'Summer Serenade' musical variety show at 7.30pm on Friday, June 27. Tickets cost £3 and are available from Red Rose Estate Agents in Flapper Fold Lane, Atherton.
Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article