A MAJOR fundraising appeal has been launched to carry out vital renovation work to the church tower in Chagford which could cost between £50,000 and £100,000.

The bells of the Parish Church of St Michael The Archangel have been silent since the end of January because of a wet-rot problem and Chagford Parochial Church Council is hoping a strong community effort will get them ringing again by mid-summer.

Churchwarden John Wood said that over the centuries the parishioners had maintained the structure of the church, which dates from the 14th Century, to a very high standard.

'The PCC has accepted the latest review of the building which will involve the need for additional expenditure of over £30,000,' he said.

'However, since then, upon a closer inspection of the tower it has become evident that there is dangerous wet-rot affecting the timber joists supporting the floor of the belfry and at lower levels in the tower.'

Mr Wood said ringing the bells was no longer considered safe because the vibration would lead to a possible collapse of the beams.

'We consider this to be a matter of urgency as the structure will otherwise continue to deteriorate,' he said.

'The bells have been a part of Chagford for many centuries and the silence on Sundays and Tuesdays is very disturbing.'

Estimates for the cost of the renovation are being obtained but it is thought that the parish is probably facing a bill of between £50,000 and £100,000.

Collection boxes for the Tower Appeal are being distributed at various points around the town and a number of fundraising events have been organised including a coffee morning and gift day on March 25.

The Brownies and Guides are arranging a sponsored camp-fire singing event for June 3 and dates for a barn dance, barbecue and auction are yet to be fixed.

Fundraisers are even considering a sponsored abseil from the church tower.

The Rector, the Rev Louis Baycock, said: 'I am sure that the people of Chagford and our many friends and visitors will support us because there are so many people who love the sound of the church bells.

'We hope they will be ringing again by mid-summer.'

Any donations can be passed to the Rector at the Rectory or to churchwardens John Wood at Highbury, Julia Endacott at 13 Nattadon Road or PCC treasurer Colin Barnes at Little Hoopern.

Cheques should be made payable to 'Chagford Parish Church'.