A group of parishioners from St Andrew’s Church, Gargrave, has sprung into action to raise money for vital roof repairs.

Local vicar the Reverevd Rod Geddes issued an urgent appeal for cash after thieves stripped a large quantity of lead off the roof, allowing rainwater to seep in.

Repairs have been estimated at £36,000.

“We have raised about £2,000 – progress is slow but sure,” said Mr Geddes. “We currently have about ten buckets in the church to catch the water.”

As part of the fundraising campaign, some parishioners are holding a sale at the Summer Seat – in the middle of the village – on Saturday from 10am to noon.

“We would appeal to people to bring along items to sell and to support the event,” said Mr Geddes.