Fundraiser launched to repair and restore historic north Westmeath church

A fundraiser has been set up to raise €50,000 to help repair and restore St Michael's Church in Castletown-Finea.

Built during the Famine, St Michael’s is a building that is shrouded in history. However, in recent years this important community asset has experienced a significant level of deterioration. A major leak in the roof has led to the weakening of the roof structure as well as the interior and exterior plaster. The church is in regular use, hosting weddings and funerals, all of which are of great importance to the local congregation and the wider community.

The GoFundMe campaign has been organised by the Castletown Church Restoration Committee. On their GoFundMe page, the committee explained the importance of restoring the church.

"We are raising funds to repair and restore St. Michael's Church Castletown-Finea Co. Westmeath. A major leak in the roof has led to the deterioration of the roof structure as well as the interior and exterior plaster. This church is also of great historical importance as it is 175 years old, built in 1847 during the Famine.

"The Church is in regular use, also hosting weddings and funerals, all of which are of great importance to the local congregation and the wider community. It is essential that this beautiful building is preserved for the future. All donations are greatly appreciated and know that your donation will have a long-lasting legacy."

To donate, click here.