VITAL repairs to the roof of an historic Droitwich Spa church will go ahead following the success of a last-ditch campaign to raise funds.

Canon Sheila Banyard was delighted to announce the first phase of restoration work on St Andrew's Church should start before Christmas.

The Parish Parochial Council (PCC) has worked tirelessly to raise the £100,000 needed to fund the work, through sale of assets, money-spinning events and grants.

However, just before work was set to start they found costs had increased and a further £10,000 was needed quickly, else risk losing a substantial grant.

They appealed to parishioners and residents through the pages of the Advertiser, and in the last month donations flooded in.

Droitwich Spa Town Council also held an emergency meeting to discuss the issue and agreed to underwrite a cost of £10,000 in the form of an interest free loan.

However, it looks as though the St Andrew's Street church has managed to raise enough cash not to need to dip into this reserve.

"The PCC is enormously grateful for the boost to the project's fund and we look forward to planning the future once this work is completed," said Sheila.

She estimated that the first phase of work on the grade two listed building would take about four months.

Once the roof is repaired the next phase of work can start, refurbishing the church's interior and making it more accessible to the wider community.

The PCC will continue fundraising for later work. If you would like to make a donation call Sheila on 01905 773134.