THE CRUMBLING roof of a Lillington church is set to be repaired.
A routine survey of St Mary Magdalene’s Church undertaken last year showed one section of the roof needed prompt action.
And when the rest of the roof was investigated, the problem proved to be even worse – requiring work costing almost £200,000.
Churchwarden John Butler and his team immediately sprung into action and set about firing in applications to various charitable trusts.
They have now received grants and donations in excess of £145,000 – including one from the Listed Places of Worship Roof Repair Fund for nearly £100,000 – and with extra cash from the church’s own reserves, the work can now go ahead.
Mr Butler said: “We are very grateful to all the charitable bodies and individuals who have supported us.
“We consider ourselves extremely fortunate to obtain such a generous grant from the Listed Places of Worship fund, particularly as they were only able to award grants to less than a third of those who applied for a £25million pot.
The Vicar, the Revd Charlotte Gale, added: “We are very grateful to the wonderful team of people who have quietly got on and solved this problem, so the church can get on with the task of worshipping God and showing his love to local people.”
In a bid to top up church coffers, a Gift Day is being held at the church on Saturday between 10am and 2 pm.
Parishioners and other people who value the building will be able to leave donations while information about the project and refreshments will also be available.
The repair works are expected to start next March.
