BEOLEY Parish Church was almost in debt, it was revealed at Saturday's village fete.

Mr J.H Mahler appealed to parishioners to spend as much as they could afford at the event and help boost church funds.

"In the past eight to ten years £7,000 has been spent on the church. For a scattered village, which has a population of just over 700, that is quite a lot. Please help us support the church," he said.

"Let us recognise the spiritual things which, without, this country would not be as great."

The fete was supposed to be opened by Miss Ann Haydon, the English Junior Table Tennis Champion and a member of the English tennis team.

However, she could not be there so her father, Mr Adrian Haydon, non-playing captain of the English Swaything Table Tennis Team, did the honours instead. He said his daughter's train had not arrived on time but she hoped to join them later.

Villagers enjoyed a host of stalls including crafts, groceries, plants, fruits, cakes, ice cream and sweets. There were also games including bowl for a pig, a treasure hunt and riffle range.

About 150 people attended the fete and a total of £115, after expenses raised.