A weathered First World War memorial gate built in 1922 is in desperate need of repair.

Wear and tear over the years has damaged the roof of the gate to St John the Evangelist Church in Bierley which was last replaced in 1951.

Parts of it have now become so warped and rotten that parishioners are appealing to the community to help restore it to its original glory in time for its 80th anniversary.

The Reverend Kevin Tromans said £250 had been granted by the London-based Friends of War Memorials, but a total of £2,000 was needed.

He said: "At the moment it spoils the view of the church. It's about sharpening up our image, that we are here to stay and that we mean business. This is a church looking to its future."

Noreen Brooke, 68, who has worshipped at the church for more than 40 years, said: "We want it to be restored to what it was originally, for the purpose it was intended rather than it becoming more tatty." Margaret Thompson, 72, who has been a parishioner since she was two, said: "The roof has been the biggest problem in the past. The names on the marble may need touching up but the rest of it is fine."

The gate was built with money raised by the people of Bierley and bears two marble plaques listing the names of Bierley and Dudley Hill residents who were killed in the Great War.

Mr Tromans, who has been with the parish since May, said: "There will be the usual Remembrance Sunday service in the garden on the day. We would love the roof to be rebuilt in time for it."

The parish has organised a concert called Brass Night, featuring Drighlington Band, at the church on Sunday, November 10. Tickets cost £3.50 and all proceeds will to go the memorial gate fund.

Any businesses and residents interested in helping the appeal should write to Mr Tromans at the Vicarage, Bierley Lane, Bradford, or call him on (01274) 681397.