SUPPORTERS of a village church have praised a charity for a crucial grant.

The National Churches Trust has awarded £10,000 to the St Mary’s the Virgin restoration appeal in Eardisland.

Various repairs to the nave, windows and masonry have taken place since villagers launched the appeal in 2008.

The latest donation means that crucial repairs to the main part of the church should be finished by the end of the summer.

Brigadier Richard Kirby, chairman of the appeal committee, said members were absolutely delighted with the generous award.

“Our appeal initially seemed a most daunting task for a rural parish of fewer than 500 adults,” said Brigadier Kirby.

“Now, with three years of fund-raising behind us, the prospect of work being completed during next year has become a reality.

“This grant could not have come at a more opportune time. The future of the church is now assured for the 21st century,”

he said.

Services are currently taking place in the chancel during repair works to the church, which part dates to the 12th century.