WORK to restore a former chapel in Buckland Monachorum to make it an active hub of community life is on track — thanks to the voluntary work of the Buckland Chapel Trust.

The former Baptist Chapel, constructed in 1850, had fallen into disrepair and had been vandalised in recent years, but the Buckland Chapel Trust, formed in June 2011, successfully raised £100,000 to buy the property in October last year.

This historic building in the heart of Buckland Monachorum had its windows vandalised and the floor joists were rotten right through; the drains were blocked and some had collapsed, the heating boiler was faulty and plaster peeling away from the walls with the penetration of damp.

Mark Tailyour, the chairman of the Buckland Chapel Trust told the Times: 'Much of this we have been able to rectify ourselves, but we need help restoring the original, lattice, gothic style early Victorian windows.'

'The purpose of the trust is to renovate the chapel and to develop, organise and promote activities of direct benefit to the local community, such as mothers and toddler groups, art groups, craft activities, coffee mornings and social events for the elderly and a meeting place for single parent families; organise family fun-time activities for all ages, plus provide a place of safety and wholesome recreation for the young people of the village for whom there is currently little on offer.'

The trust has received part funding from Viridor Credits, via the Pennon Environmental Fund but is also actively fundraising for the remaining £9,000 in donations to help its work.

A 'Coast to Coast' cyle ride has also been organised for Saturday, June 16.

Times readers who would like to join in or help to sponsor the event can get more information by going to http://www.facebook.com/groups/398142193543077">www.facebook.com/groups/398142193543077

For further details about the window appeal, the cycle ride or the Buckland Chapel Trust contact Mark Tailyour on 01822 852195 or 07775 872352.