THE fundraising appeal to replace the lead that was stolen off the roof of All Saints’ Church last year has got off to an encouraging start.
Around £8,000 has been raised including donations from the public and church members – but the appeal hasn’t closed yet as the church’s target figure is £25,000.
“I would like to thank everyone who has responded recently to our appeal,” said Rebecca Harris, team rector at the White Horse Team Ministry.
“We appealed through the White Horse News recently for donations from the people of Westbury to help us replace the section of lead which was stolen last year. We are pleased to announce that so far we have raised approximately £8,000 including Gift Aid from our appeal. This includes donations from the public as well as from church members.
“I would like to extend my thanks to all who have contributed so generously towards this.
“The appeal hasn’t closed yet, as the target figure is £25,000. We are applying for grants from various trust bodies, but these take time to come through, and we are not able to start the work until we have received the grant. So we are having to be patient!
“If you haven’t contributed yet and would like to send a gift, we would be very grateful to receive it as soon as possible. You can use our QR code or go onto our website: https://whtministry.org.uk/all-saints-westbury/.
“Just to remind you that we receive no extra funding from the national church or the government. We rely heavily on voluntary donations from church members and the local community. Our ancient Grade 1 listed building requires a lot of care and maintenance. We want to be here for your future family life events like weddings, funerals and christenings; as well as for special and civic services at Christmas, Easter, Harvest and Remembrance.
“If you would like to know more, please see our website or find us on Facebook: just search for All Saints’ Church, Westbury. Details of all our services and activities are on there, or just drop by and see us one Sunday morning. Our main Sunday service is at 9.30am. Or see the church notices in the church or churchyard.
“Thank you again for all those who have given so generously and for all your support. If you gave your gift anonymously through our website, but would like a personal letter of thanks from me, please be in touch with me on: office@whtministry.org.uk and I would be pleased to respond. Or you can ring our office number: 01373 859450.”
The church has permission to replace the roof after the theft in July last year, but will do so with steel, rather than lead, which is less attractive to thieves.
The theft was reported to the police, but despite CCTV footage, the culprits have not been caught.
Due to the increasing cost of lead thefts, insurers do not pay out the full cost to repair the damage so the congregation is left having to find the shortfall.
