There was some great news for Pembroke’s Tabernacle URC Church this week with the announcement that it has received a confirmed grant of £85,100 from the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) for urgent repairs to the fabric of the building.

The project aims to regenerate the church buildings so using them to their full potential, using its ideal location in the town centre of Pembroke. Working with Partners within the Community, this project will enable Tabernacle URC to have the flexibility to change and adapt its support as the community develops and grows within a building that is fit for purpose.

The project will carry out essential conservation work and modernisation by preventing water ingress through the roof and providing modern facilities like heating, toilets and a kitchen.

It is fitting that this iconic Rev. Thomas Thomas designed Grade 2 Listed Chapel (1867) built in such a strategic location for the town should be receiving a ‘make over’ at this time of increased interest in the built heritage of the town. The church will be at the centre of three projects that tell different aspects of the history of Pembroke for residents and visitors alike, as Janet Drogan, chair of the Pembroke Town Walls Trust, says, “Tabernacle is unique in that it illustrates so many ages of habitation of Pembroke all on one site.”

Linda Gibbs, an elder of the church and treasurer, said: “We’re delighted that the Heritage Lottery Fund has given us this grant. The improved facilities will enable the church to increase the scope and support of its service to the community of Pembroke in a much more comfortable environment and in a wider range of activities.”

Richard Bellamy, head of the Heritage Lottery Fund Wales, said: “Places of worship are among the UK’s most historic buildings, with fascinating stories behind them. Thanks to National Lottery players, this money will pay for urgent repairs at Tabernacle United Reformed Church, whilst also helping to tell the stories of this special place to visitors. As a result the building itself will be more used by the whole community, and properly cared for into the future.”