A recently reopened historic church is set to launch its bid to raise £25,000 after part of its roof fell in.
St Mary’s Church in Pinchbeck, which dates back to 1495, faces the bill after the damage to the nave.
The Grade I listed building was closed for most of July as a result, but has now reopened.
Now it’s going to launch the fundraising drive at a special church open day on Bank Holiday Monday, August 31, by inviting the community to look around the historic building.
And the event, from 11am to 4pm, will also include a clock chiming for the first time in years
“With our appeal we are aiming to make the church again the heart of the community, a more welcoming family space, and have services that welcome all and this service is our first attempt at this,” said church warden Louisa Evans. “We were already needing to raise £20k for lead repairs to the south porch roof when some of the plaster on the nave ceiling fell down. To just repair two panels will cost £5k.
“Some time ago raised money to have the church clock repaired. An anonymous benefactor also gave us money to have the dial regilded so on August 31 we are officially switching the clock chimes on as well as launching the appeal.”
The fundraising is just for phase one of required improvements.
Phase two would include major electrical improvements, repairing the north parapet and restoring the vestry window.
“We don’t have full quotes for these but you will appreciate it is going to be an eye-watering sum,” Ms Evans said.
The August Bank Holiday event will include various stalls, a paper aeroplane competition, treasure hunts for all ages, a barbecue and, weather permitting, tours of the historic tower.
A host of fundraising events are being lined up including a Queen tribute act, a quiz night, the annual Christmas tree festival and a performance by the Spalding based Mirinesse choir.
This weekend is the first big occasion since the reopening with a Pet Blessing service set to take place.
At 3pm on Sunday (August 16) the Rev Ian Waters will lead the service, which will be held outside if the weather is good enough.
A spokesman for the church said: “Bring your families and friends.”
