FUNDRAISING for the restoration of a Brentor church got underway this month, but an appeal has been made for people to come forward to create a fundraising group.

The first fundraising event for St Michael De Rupe Church saw an evening lecture of Byzantine art history given by art historian, Geri Parlby.

Churchwarden Sheila Downs said: 'This was our first fundraising event and Geri had volunteered her services for this wonderful cause. It was a most stimulating evening.'

The evening raised £149 towards the restoration fund, but with an estimate of £30,000 required to restore the church's bell tower and bells, volunteers are needed to assist with raising the funds.

Mrs Downs said: 'I am the churchwarden and treasurer at Brentor and I have a bed and breakfast to run, so I am having difficulty doing it all on my own. These events take a lot of organising with tickets, posters, food and drinks etc.'

Without funds for the restoration, the church will be unable to use the bells for weddings and other events this summer.

Despite the current lack of fundraising help, a second event has been organised, offering an evening concert by the Loveny Male Voice Choir at Christchurch in Brentor on March 27 at 7.30pm.

The choir, which was formed in 1971, has won the county championships three times, and is known for its individual approach to male voice singing.

The evening will cost £7 and refreshments will be available.

Anyone able to spare a few hours of their time, and interested in joining the fundraising group should contact Sheila Downs on 01822 820382.