FUNDRAISERS working to secure the cash needed to restore an Ashperton Church are halfway there.

More than £15,000 of the £30,000 needed to restore St Bartholomew's has been banked, thanks to a grant from the Historic Churches Trust, money from fundraising activities and a £10,000 donation from an anonymous benefactor.

Several areas of concern at the church were highlighted in the latest quinquennial architect's report and, in recent months, £10,000 of that raised has been spent on essential repairs.

Parochial church council treasurer Alan Watkins said: "Building work inside Ashperton Church, including the nave roof space and chancel ceiling has now been completed. We still have about £5,000 in hand."

Several beams in the roof have been replaced, and repairs have been carried out to the Georgian ceiling.

Around £15,000 still needs to be found for the next phase of repairs, including the replacing of guttering and tiles on the roof.

Further fundraising took place on Saturday, with a Gift Day at the Church from 10am to 2pm, at which Mr Watkins was on hand to receive donations.

The PCC has also organised its annual sale, to take place on Saturday, September 29, from 9.30am to 11.30pm in St Peter's Church hall, St Peter's Square, Hereford.

For the first time in many years, the event could not take place in St Katherine's Hall, Ledbury, because the slot had already been booked.

Mr Watkins said he hoped people would come along and show support.

He said: "If we raise £100, it's all money in the kitty."

The PCC is appealing for more donations towards the restoration. For further details, ring 01531 670246.