Conwy church is Wales’s only finalist for the National Churches Trust Award

A medieval church in Conwy is the only church in Wales to be shortlisted for this year’s National Churches Trust Friends Award.

St Benedict’s Church in Gyffin (Bro Celynnin Ministry Area) is one of four churches in the running for a grant of £10,000. The Grade I listed church is home to a rare painted ceiling dating from the 15th century.

If St Benedict’s receives the grant, the funding will support redecoration, repairs to modern plasterwork and paint finishes, and the installation of an accessible toilet. The project would allow the church to open more often and help residents and visitors discover more about the building and the history of Gyffin.

Rosemary Mart of St Benedict's Church said: "What I'm praying for is that the church becomes busier and more visible. We want people to notice it, see it open more often, and discover the heritage behind its doors. From the ceiling paintings and the font to the historic stones in the porch, stories are waiting to be told. Much of this is not widely known, even locally.

“We want the community to know that this space belongs to them and that they are welcome here.”

Only Friends of the National Churches Trust can vote. Those who are not already Friends can still join, but must do so by Monday 17 August 2026 to be eligible.

If you are a Friend, or know someone who is, please encourage them to vote for St Benedict’s before voting closes at 9pm on Monday 31 August 2026.