Community buys historic Scottish church to prevent private sale

The Friends of Wamphray Church (FWC) purchased the Wamphray Church near Beattock in southern Scotland to ensure the building remains a community asset.

The group successfully raised the necessary funds to buy the property from the Church of Scotland, preventing the site from falling into private ownership. The community group raised more than £45,000 in less than a year to secure the building.

Funding came from a public appeal that drew donations from the UK, the US, and Canada, along with a grant from SSE Renewables and Clyde Wind Farm. The church was built in 1834 on the site of a medieval building and contains an 8th Century carved stone cross shaft. The owners plan to transform the site into an events venue and a nature and heritage hub.

While the group celebrates the purchase, members say they must now begin the practical work of preparing the building for public use, including installing toilets. The church will host a traditional Christmas Eve celebration on 24 December.