A FUNDRAISING appeal to repair a church bell tower near Inkberrow is nearing its target thanks to a further two donations.

The Abbots Morton Residents' Association, which represents just over 70 households, presented a cheque for £500 at the village's annual parish meeting on May 15.

As previously reported, the Grade I-listed St Peter's Church, in Abbots Morton needs £40,000 to repair the top of the crumbling stonework on its 14th Century bell tower.

And this latest donation has taken the total to £33,197.

Cyril Burton, The Residents' Association chairman, said: "Our Association was formed in 1988 with the objectives of preserving the past and protecting the future of this beautiful and ancient Conservation Area.

"Our church of St.Peter dates back to the 12th century so it is only right, therefore, that we contribute to the restoration of its bell tower."

A further grant of £2,000 from a charitable trust, The Ratcliff Foundation, was also recently donated.

Appeal Chairman Colin Pemberton said: "We're immensely grateful for both these generous donations.

"We're delighted that our Residents' Association members are clearly telling us what an important part our church plays in the heritage of this community."

For more information about the appeal, visit abbotsmortonbelltower.co.uk.