MESSAGES of goodwill from across the area have been winging their way to Heysham's historic St Peter's church after The Citizen revealed its cash plight.

Around £750 has been donated to the church since our exclusive front page story two weeks ago revealed the dire cash difficulties faced at St Peters.

As we reported, the church, which dates back to the 6th century, desperately needs around £60,000 for vital maintenance work and to make good years of financial losses.

Many of the donations are accompanied by letters, illustrating the deep love many local people have for the church.

The Rector of Heysham, David Tickner MBE, said: "There have been small donations with people writing saying 'I wish I could do more.'

"There is a very clear love for the church and its settings. Many of the letters speak about an association with the church over many years.

"If the letters are anything to go by, the sense of ownership by the community is coming though all the time. The thing that really makes me happy is that people care so much."

And one group of fundraisers has already handed over a cheque for £1,632, raised from a John O'Groats to Lands End drive in a vintage 1936 Austin Seven.

Mark Newton and Geoffrey Coward completed the epic journey as part of the Jogle 2000 event for classic cars.

St Peter's Church still desperately needs to raise cash, and any donations or offers of support can be sent to The Rectory, Main Street, Heysham, LA3 2RN.