May I, through your column, publicly thank all those kind members of the Leominster community who have contributed to the Leominster Priory Restoration Appeal.

The cost of making the lead roof watertight is estimated at £200,000 and I am pleased to report that we are within £25,000 of that figure. This week we go out to tender for the repairs. English Heritage has warned that the roof is now in a very poor state and it is imperative that work begins this August ahead of the winter, to prevent further serious deterioration.

Some difficult decisions will have to be made in the coming weeks. The work cannot be started until there is sufficient funding in place to complete the project. My Committee is concerned that The Priory, so important to generations of Leominster folk, may be at serious risk if there is a bad winter. There is no government money for this type of work – we are striving alone to raise the funds within the timescale.

If anyone would like further information please email info @ priory-appeal.co.uk. Donations payable to Leominster PCC may be sent to the address below.

Chris Hodson Chairman, Leominster Priory Restoration Appeal.

Forbury Chapel Office, Church Street, Leominster.