ONE in eight historic churches in the North West are ‘at risk’, according to a new survey from English Heritage.

The conservation charity said its first-ever survey of the region’s almost 1,300 listed places of worship found that 12 per cent are potentially at risk of needing urgent major repairs.

The survey, part of English Heritage’s Heritage at Risk initiative, was carried out to assess the state of repair of places of worship.

And now the National Churches Trust is launching a telephone helpline to assist people with setting up ‘friends groups’.

Henry Owen, from the charity, said: “Many places of worship face very uncertain futures.

"The 12per cent we estimate to be vulnerable in the North West would translate into nearly 160 buildings.

“Ultimately, we will add the most vulnerable to our Heritage at Risk register, making it easier for congregations to get help from heritage organisations, local authorities and the community.”

The survey found that two-thirds of congregations questioned said that funding major repairs was a constant worry.

English Heritage has now produced Caring for Places of Worship, a guide, DVD and website pointing congregations in the direction of help and advice.

English Heritage and the Heritage Lottery Fund have allocated more than £28million to 249 places of worship in the North West under the Repair Grants for Places of Worship Scheme.

And the organisation called for those grants to continue.

Simon Thurley, English Heritage chief executive, said: “The scheme will run until at least 2013, but we urge the Government to respond to the call from faith and heritage bodies to continue the Listed Places of Worship Scheme beyond March 2011.

“And I encourage everyone who cares about their local church, chapel, synagogue, or other place of worship, to lend a hand.”

The National Churches Trust helpline is 020 7600 6090.