Wednesday March 18th 2026
Linon Kirk, Scottish Borders
Written by Local Democracy Reporter, Paul Kelly
A community appeal has been launched to raise £30,000 to prevent one of Scotland’s oldest and most beautiful churches ending up in private hands.
The Linton Kirk Heritage Appeal (LKHA) has the opportunity to buy Linton Kirk to secure its future as a place for peaceful prayer, and occasional worship, for visitors and the local community.
Records of Linton Kirk, which sits on an historic mound between the villages of Linton and Morebattle in the Scottish Borders, date back to the 12th Century.
It is among hundreds of churches the Church of Scotland has put up for sale due to declining congregations and unsustainable building costs.
But it has been agreed that if parishioners can meet Linton’s asking price of £35,000 it will transfer ownership to a heritage trust.
With just over a month before the deadline closes for raising the necessary funds a total of just over £10,000 is already in the appeal coffers.
Campaigners aim to safeguard the church for future generations ahead of its 900th anniversary in 2027.
The history of the site has an international reach.
Members of the Somerville clan across the world return to the area for events to honour the legend of William de Somerville, the first Baron of Linton.
In folklore, he slayed the Linton Worm, described as a 10ft (4m) long beast with fangs, that had its lair on Linton Hill.
Among those supporting the campaign is local farmer and former Scottish international rugby player John Jeffrey, who won 40 caps for his country.
He said: “The saving of rural churches is fundamental to also saving local communities and Linton church is no different. It also has added historical significance and is a most beautiful piece of architecture.
“It would be a real shame if Linton Kirk was not saved by, and for, the local community and I commend this fundraising effort to one and all irrespective of background.”
To support the appeal go to https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/linton-kirk-heritage-appeal#.
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