Historic church saved in two days after global clan Facebook plea

A couple who decided to save their local church took just two days to raise the money to make the purchase – thanks to donations from well-wishers around the world.

Andrew and Kirsteen Mitchell crowd-funded £70,000 to buy Applegarth Church near Lockerbie following an appeal to members of Clan Jardine, whose ancient family set lies within the tiny hamlet.

Descendants from the United States, South Africa and Canada put their hands in their pockets to help secure the future of the building.

The couple, who kick-started the fundraising campaign with a £15,000 donation, have now established a charity for the church to be used as a place for weddings, funerals and events.

“In 48 hours we had raised more than the asking price of £55,000. We were astounded,” the couple said.

The church closed in 2023 and since then the Applegarth congregation has merged with others in nearby Lockerbie.

It was put on the market by the Church of Scotland earlier this year – one of several properties it is selling to cover rising costs amid shrinking congregations.

Mr and Mrs Mitchell own the neighbouring manse property, which was once home to the church minister and is also used as luxury accommodation.

The couple wanted to preserve the history of the church and the building itself, which had been earmarked for a potential recording studio or storage facility.

“I emailed families who had stayed with us over the years – not just Jardines, but those who had come to find their forebears in the churchyard. In particular a family of Beatties in Canada”, said Kirsteen.

One Jardine family donated about £30,000 towards the purchase price of the church, which dates back to 1760.

Mrs Mitchell said: “We believe a church has stood on this site in some capacity since around 600 AD. We’re overwhelmed by all of those who have come forward to offer support.”

The church has served as the spiritual home of the Jardine family, who were among the infamous Border Reivers and frequently carried out raids over the border between the 13th and 15th centuries.

A ceremony and a blessing to mark the keys being officially handed over to the newly established Friends of Applegarth Church, which is now a registered Scottish charity, will be held at the church on 30 November.

Clan Chief Sir William Jardine will be in attendance with his family, alongside visitors from the United States and South Africa.

“Credit to my husband Andrew who has been instrumental in establishing the charity,” Mrs Mitchell said.

“We welcome anyone with an interest in the church to come along to the ceremony.

“We are interested to hear ideas about potential future use and look forward to marking this next chapter.”

It is the second time this year a clan has saved a south Scotland church this year.

Members of Clan Turnbull stepped in to preserve Ruberslaw Parish Church at Bedrule – between Hawick and Jedburgh – during the summer.