A CATHOLIC priest is continuing to fundraise to save a "landmark" church for the future. Father Kevin Payne needs more than £1 million to restore his Our Lady of Peace, Newbridge, to its original Italian-style appearance.
Built in the 1930s, the Roman Catholic Church has become run down.
Estimates have put the work needed for the project, which includes new heating, re-rendering the outside walls and essential roof work at £1.2 million.
Cadw has already agreed in principle to grant the church £170,000, Father Kevin said.
They are also putting together an application for funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund, which could cover up to £100,000 of the total needed for the project, and expect to hear from them in the next couple of months.
Other options for grants are also being considered, and the church, and will also reach out to the community and further afield for fundraising.
The plan also includes opening the building up more to the public - with the addition of a new meeting room for community events and a disabled entrance.
Father Kevin says he hopes to open the church for a few hours a week to allow visitors to see more of the building outside services by November.
The church also wishes to restore the Stations of the Cross and ceiling to their original state.
He described the church as a "beautiful" building and a landmark in Newbridge that had fallen into ruin over the years.
Father Kevin said: "The work would save it for the future.
The church is holding a concert on Sunday with Dowlais Male Voice Choir. Tickets have already sold out and money raised will go towards church funds.
If you would like to help the church contact Father Kevin on 07980236936 or email catholicchurch@btinternet.com.
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(Source: VST)