A 200-year-old endangered building at the Historic Dockyard Chatham has been saved.

Built in 1806, the No1 Smithery, which is on the "at risk" register, can now be restored, thanks to £2.2million funding from three organisations.

The building, where metalwork for ship building and repair was carried out, was last used in 1972, but has since fallen into a sad state of disrepair.

The money is being provided by the Department for Communities and Local Government – £1.4million – Medway Renaissance and English Heritage.

It is expected that the Smithery will be used for the National Museums at Chatham project. This will feature a range of attractions, including historically important model ships, educational facilities and temporary exhibitions.

* SEE FRIDAY'S MEDWAY MESSENGER FOR THE FULL STORY.