THE congregation of a deteriorating church are appealing for help to carry out much-needed repairs in time for its 100th anniversary next year.

Church wardens Stephen Hobson and Pauline Kirk of St James Church and Hall, Edgworth hope the hall could be used more by the community but said repairs were essential.

Their joint annual report on the condition of the buildings said: "We are faced with a huge repair bill, the amenities are extremely poor particularly the condition of the kitchen. Therefore we are finding it increasingly more difficult to raise income from letting the hall."

Work includes the re-flagging at the front church. The main building walls need repointing and plastering, the rear window has become rotten so needs replacing and the gutters are in need of urgent attention.

Parish vicar, the Reverend Martin Short, said a church it cannot apply for Lottery grants.

He said: "We are asking various resources from different organisations to help us do the works that are needed.

"Last year we were given paint by Akzo Nobel which was a great help but there's still a long way to go."