A CHURCH plagued by dry rot has had the problem fixed after a campaign raised the £20,000 needed to carry out the work.

St Francis Church in Feniscliffe, Blackburn, launched its campaign to ‘fix the fungus’ last year.

Scaffolding was erected in December, 2011, which restricted the use of the church’s altar rail and choir stalls.

But after a number of fundraising events and an appeal via the Lancashire Telegraph, the money was raised to carry out the work.

The scaffolding has now been removed, much to the delight of church users.

Churchwarden Tony Duckworth said: “It is really nice to have the church back and the work has been guaranteed for a decade.

“We have raised the money through a variety of events, including a walk across Morecambe Bay, dances, table top sales, a Christmas meal, coffee mornings and more.

“Plus there were generous donations from people, including one couple who came across town and donated £200 as a result of the Lancashire Telegraph article.

“We would like to thank all those people who have helped us. Without them we wouldn’t have been able to fix the problem.”

Blackburn MP Jack Straw called on the community in March last year to back the church and help with the campaign.

Meadowhead councillor Ashley Whalley said: “It is a great achievement for all those who contributed.

“It is an iconic building in that area of Blackburn so congratulations to them.

“St Francis Church is an important community facility and a beautiful building.”

An ‘I helped fix the fungus at St Francis Church’ badge, designed by St Francis Primary School pupil Lee Felipes, is available to buy from the church for £1.50.