AN appeal was this week issued by a West Devon church council, which says its Grade I Listed church is facing urgent repairs carrying a substantial £50,000 price tag.
St Andrew?s Church at Sampford Courtenay has played an important part in the life of the extensive parish for centuries.
It has also figured prominently in the history of the Church of England, and a permanent exhibition is mounted in the building, concerning the Prayer Book Rebellion.
But the lead roof on the southern side of the church is leaking seriously ? there are also major defects to the pointing on the south wall and part of the west end tower, plus a damaged lightning conductor.
Kate Dean, churchwarden at St Andrew?s, said the church was not in danger of being closed ? but the work had to be done if the building was to remain the focus of life in the village.
Ms Dean said: ?It?s just getting damper and damper and there are a few bits like battlements which are a bit dodgy, but it?s a matter of stopping it before it gets too bad.
?We?ve done some temporary repairs on the worst of it, but it looks as if the earliest we would be able to do it is next summer.?
She said the work, expected to cost at least £50,000, was far more than the church council could afford.
It was therefore forced to appeal to people with links to Sampford Courtenay, or a love of the 15th century church, to donate funds to the repair appeal.
The church council will also be applying to charities for financial aid.
Sampford Courtenay Parochial Church Council would like to hear from anyone interested in donating to the St Andrew?s Church repair fund, or organising a fundraising event to boost the appeal.
Volunteers may also like to arrange sponsorship and take part in the Devon Historic Churches Trust bike, ride or stride event on September 14, when half the proceeds raised will come back to St Andrew?s.
Any contributions should be sent to Anthony Jervoise, Rowden Manor Farm, Sampford Courtenay, Devon EX20 2SJ. Cheques should be made payable to Sampford Courtenay PCC.