Scotland's oldest continually working cinema will receive a grant of £450,000 from Historic Scotland to carry out repairs.

Campbeltown Picture House in Argyll will benefit from the money, one of eight recipients awarded a total of almost £2m of grants.

The other seven recipients to receive a share of the £1,900,970 are Sauchie Tower, built in the early 15th century by the Governor of Stirling Castle, Tomintoul Croft in Braemar, a rare surviving 19th century croft cottage, Paisley Town Hall, Kelburn Castle, Largs, Cowane’s Hospital in Stirling, Caithness Row, New Lanark and the early 18th century Semple Park Cascade system in Renfrewshire.

Campbeltown Picture House opened in May 1913. Its original interior decor, a painted starry sky on the ceiling and projected clouds, was an attempt to make visitors feel like they are watching a film outside.

Mrs Jane Mayo, chairwoman, Campbeltown Community Business Ltd and The Picture House (Campbeltown) Ltd said: "The directors and the design team of The Picture House are delighted with the offer of grant assistance from Historic Scotland to conserve this internationally important cinema.

"From the outset Historic Scotland have provided support for this building and we very much welcome their substantial contribution. This funding will enable the building to be conserved and repaired to the highest standard. We look forward to working with them to ensure the survival of this important cultural and community asset."

Fiona Hyslop, cabinet minister for Culture and External Affairs, said: "Scotland has a wealth of fascinating buildings and architecture and it is vital that we preserve these iconic buildings which help regenerate areas and communities.

"These grants not only help to breathe new fabric into the heart of the community and preserve our sense of history and heritage but also assist in attracting visitors, which in turns boosts Scotland’s economy."