ST MICHAEL’S Church has received a boost in its fundraising drive, through a donation from the Winsford and Middlewich Rotary Club.

The church, in Hightown, is seeking donations to complement a grant ahead of crucial structural renovation works.

Ron Attley, president of the Rotary Club, presented Reverend Simon Drew of St Michael’s and All Angels Parish Church with a cheque for £500.

As recently published in the Guardian, the church is preparing to undergo a five-phase restoration project, starting with major repairs to the roof and walls.

The church, parts of which date back to the 12th century, is grade II-listed and an important part of Middlewich’s heritage.

Historic England currently consider the building to be ‘at risk’, and the first phase of the refurbishment would involve removing and replacing the roof as well as other structural repairs.

St Michael’s has hosted a gift day and a Norman re-enactment day in recent weeks, raising around £10,000 of the remaining £13,000 required for work to start. It is hoped phase one can begin before Christmas.

For more information on the restoration and how you can help, visit middlewichparishchurch.org.uk or call in to No. 28 in Hightown.

If you are interested in joining the Rotary Club, who work to help charities, call Ron on 07590 046709 or Peter Robinson on 07779 607976 for more information.