The award of £33100 will allow the Parochial Church Council (PCC) and the Trustees of the Tinclar Library to carry out renovation and repairs to St. Patrick’s Hall - an historic building in the centre of the village conservation area and to provide improved storage conditions for the better preservation of the books in the Library.

Founded in 1750 the Tinclar Library is one of only two parish libraries in Cumbria still in its original parish and the only one open to the public. Now comprising about 1600 volumes, the collection contains historic, theological and other books and an expanding selection of books of local interest and other archival and reference materials relating to the village community and its history.

Sara Hilton, Head of Heritage Lottery Fund North West, said: “St Patrick’s Hall, and the Tinclar Library are heritage treasures. This project will mean that both the building and the wonderful collection can be conserved and protected for future generations. The creation of a travelling exhibition will mean that more people will have the chance to learn about and get involved in, their local heritage.”

Mrs Kathy Jenkins, Vice Chairman of the PCC and Mr. John Stacey, a trustee of the Tinclar Library, both said: “We are very pleased that the Heritage Lottery Fund has enabled this work to take place. Not only shall we be able to improve an historic building in the centre of the village but, more importantly, a unique library which is part of the heritage of Bampton will be retained for the local community and as a resource for future generations.”

The project, which will begin in the summer will include repairs to cracked and damp affected walls, dry lining of external walls, a new draught lobby rewiring and heating.

Additional bookcases and storage for the library will be provided, conservation work under taken to the books and projects and events undertaken to raise awareness of the Library in the local and wider community. It is hoped that these will encourage greater voluntary participation in its conservation and management and to safeguard its retention in the Parish.

Notes to editors

Using money raised through the National Lottery, the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) sustains and transforms a wide range of heritage for present and future generations to take part in, learn from and enjoy. From museums, parks and historic places to archaeology, natural environment and cultural traditions, we invest in every part of our diverse heritage. HLF has supported 33,900 projects, allocating £4.4billion across the UK.

Further information

Mrs Kathy Jenkins on 01931 714 400 or venjenks@globalnet.co.uk