AN APPEAL to restore decaying buildings at Aylesford Priory may be in line for a huge financial boost. The friars hope to receive a grant for up to £40,000 from Waste Recycle Environmental (Wren).

Under a Government scheme, companies using landfill sites such as the one in nearby Offham can give money to good causes instead of paying tax. Wren allocates the money on behalf of the companies and expects to award The Friars with a grant by Easter.

The news comes after English Heritage awarded the priory £6,000 for essential repairs to an old wall next to the gatehouse. The money will be used to stabilise the wall, parts of which collapsed last summer.

Fund-raising events are being planned to meet the target of more than £1 million for repairs to the 15th century gatehouse, a 17th century barn near the teashop and the building separating the shrine area from the courtyard. The friars have raised about £150,000 since the official launch of the appeal a year ago.

The prior of Aylesford, Fr Wilfrid McGreal, said he hoped funds would pour in faster than of late. "We need more individuals to help," he said. "We are hoping that some large organisation or a wealthy person will be generous."

In a bid to boost the appeal, Fr McGreal is planning to run courses on stress relief for members of organisations across the county.The plans are at a very early stage but Fr McGreal hopes to hold the first session this month.

The priory is also inviting Kent companies to donate money to the appeal and in return use Aylesford for conferences and other functions at a reduced rate. Fund-raising events for the summer include a concert by the Society of Recorder Players in May and a performance by the KM Concert Brass Band in July.

Fr McGreal is leading a pilgrimage to Lourdes in September and fellow organisers Tangney Tours, the Borough Green-based coach company, is to give proceeds to the priory appeal.

For information on the appeal or to make a donation, contact Fr McGreal's secretary Ros Duddell on 01622 717272.