MAJOR repair work has started on the £128,600 restoration of St Mary's Church, Lifton — but there is still a £39,700 shortfall of funds to be found.
The ancient roof timbers of the church, which was rebuilt in the 15th century, have been badly attacked by death watch beetle and woodworm — some of the beams are in excess of 400 years old.
Work began in February and is expected to be concluded by July. At present extensive scaffolding has been put up and all the slates removed and stacked in numerical order.
Church spokesman Dilwyn Hughes said English Heritage has promised a grant of £33,700 towards the estimated cost of repairs.
'A recent Gift Day Appeal raised the magnificent sum of £9, 670 — which is an indication of the love and support parishioners have for their church,' he said.
'Parishioners have been working extremely hard for the past eight years to raise sufficient funds.'
However, Mr Hughes said the congregation was dismayed that a total of £19,200 will have to be payed in VAT charges.
'They feel as caretakers of Grade l English Heritage buildings such as churches they should be exempt from such charges,' he said.
St Mary's has received an interest free loan of £5,000 plus a grant of £4,000 from the Exeter Diocese, and a grant of £1,000 from the Devon Historic Churches Trust.
The church is still trying to raise the rest of its appeal. Any donations may be sent to the Rev John Heath, The Rectory, Lifton.