A SERIES of fundraisers are being organised to raise funds towards the St Peter's Church Bell Tower Appeal.

The appeal has been launched to raise £50,000 to repair the worn bell tower at the Norton church.

Reverend Rachel Hirst, vicar of St Peter’s, said so far they had raised around ten per cent of their goal which would help when making grant applications.

"We have been really touched by the support in the community, as well as the generosity of church members," she added.

"A number of groups and individuals have made donations and others have told us they intend to. I'm even doing a sponsored slim with one or two others and a local darts group gave us some money."

Rev Hirst said they had reached the stage of getting planning permission from the diocese and were getting tenders for the work now their architect had written a detailed report on the work.

"We are also compiling the huge amounts of information needed to apply for grants but hope to be able to start applying shortly. It is likely the work will commence in the Spring," she added.

To raise funds towards the appeal a family barn dance will be held on Saturday, October 3, from 7pm, with live music and refreshments.

Tickets are available from www.belltowerbarndance.eventbrite.co.uk, everidgeway@gmail.com or on the door on the evening, although booking is advised.

A Pop Up Cafe will also be fortnightly on Fridays from October 2, in Church House, Langton Road, from 8.45-11.30am.

If anyone would like to make a donation they can use one of the envelopes in church marked Bell Tower Appeal or send a donation to The Treasurer, St Peter’s Church House, Langton Road, Norton YO17 9AE (cheques payable to “ST Peter’s PCC”).