The community in Awliscombe has been pulling together in a bid to raise in the region of £70,000 to repair the church roof.

St Michael and All Angels Church is in much need of repair after thieves stole lead from the roof back in spring 2012, which has caused water to leak into the building.

The money raised will be used to replace the roof as well as any other work needed.

The church building has been in the village for over 800 years.

“We are just thrilled with the response from the village,” says the Reverend Jane Lankester, the team vicar for the Honiton mission community.

The village has already had a sponsored ‘Songs of Praise’, where people bid for their favourite hymns, which raised more than £1,500.

“People were very generous and we are so grateful for that,” she added. “We really feel it is a community effort.”

The church is looking at getting other funding to help pay for the repairs and further fundraising events are planned.

Anyone wishing to help or donate to the appeal can call the church on 01404 44035.