The future of the Traditional Building Skills Bursary Scheme, which has helped 70 people train in conservation building skills, including stonemasonry, since it was set up in 2006, hangs in the balance.

The scheme provides bursaries of up to £15,000 to enable people to work with companies registered with the scheme.

Stonemasonry placements have included Gloucester and Worcester Cathedrals, York Minster, Hardwick Hall and the Tower of London.

But the funding of £1.2million has now run out. An application is with the Heritage Lottery Fund for more and a decision is expected next month.