AN appeal to raise close on three quarters of a million pounds to repair the crumbling fabric of St John's Parish Church in Bromsgrove and rebuild its organ continues to gain support.

The appeal is being supported by your No 1 community newspaper, the Advertiser/Messenger, which has pledged to publicise fundraising events.

The novel idea of setting up fundraising '500 Clubs' as a way of involving lots of people to help raise cash for the St John's Landmark Appeal is proving very popular

Individuals, teams, schools and work places are signing up to join the 500 Club and pledge to raise £500 in 500 days by whatever way they choose.

The original target was £50,000 for the duration of the 18-month appeal and judging by the popularity of the scheme so far that figure looks set to be achieved.

Two of the latest clubs to hand over the cash are Bromsgrove U3A (University of the Third Age) for retired people and youngsters from Bromsgrove School.

Gillian Ford from New Road, chairman of Bromsgrove U3A, said £708.35 was raised from a bazaar organised by member Rosalie Dilkes.

The local branch is one of 500 nationally. It has 120 members who organise study groups for a wide variety of subjects as well as theatre and concert visits.

And eight music students at Bromsgrove School raised the magnificent sum of £693.13 by learning to play a new musical instrument during the month-long Easter holidays

Later, they held a concert at which they put their new skills to the test to the delight of their audience who sponsored them

St John's vicar, the Rev Nigel Marns, thanked the U3A and Bromsgrove School on their fine efforts.

Ring the appeals office on 01527 835734 to find out how YOU can start a 500 club.