Easter Ross-based Ardross Ark church building featured in BBC TV hit The Traitors set to throw open doors to public this weekend
AN Easter Ross church seen by a global audience in a BAFTA award-winning reality TV show is throwing open its doors to the public this weekend.
Ardross Church was built by Mr Dyson Perrins of Ardross Castle as a thanksgiving for the recovery of his wife from a serious illness. A Deed of Declaration of Trust was presented at Edinburgh on August 1, 1899 and the foundation stone was laid by Mrs Perrins on August 17 of the same year.
Hot on the heels of the news that the BBC Traitors TV show has won a BAFTA, the church building featured in the show has issued an open invite as part of its Spring Fair Gathering.
On Saturday (may 27), the building – now known as Ardross Ark – is hosting the Spring Fair Gathering giving all Traitor fans an ideal chance to see around the historic listed structure which featured in both the UK and American versions of the hit TV show.
It is now run by the community under the banner of Ardross Ark whose mission is to safeguard the striking and historical building for future generations.The group is developing it as an inclusive community venue for visitors and locals.
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Features of the building include a stunning large orbicular stained glass window and windows dedicated to Saint Andrew and Saint Columba. On the rear wall is a poignant reminder of the sacrifice made by many Highland communities in the Great War of 1914-1918. When built the heating and lighting was provided free by the estate and a well-preserved panel, complete with switches and fuses, can be viewed.
Doors open 11am with music by local students from noon onwards. There will be a selection of local stalls inside and out in the garden area selling produce, crafts, teas, coffees and tray bakes.
A courtesy community bus will depart from Alness Heritage Centre at 11.30am.
Richard Smith from the Ardross Ark group said: “We hope as many people as possible take up this opportunity to come to look around the historic building and help us make the day a celebration. We rely on donations to help with the upkeep of this listed building so although we are not charging for entry, any donations will be very welcome.”
