A church is praying for community support to preserve its historic building.
A appeal has been launched by those at Christ Church Walmsley in Egerton after a corroded boiler leaked and flooded the boiler house, leaving the building without heating.
Services had to be cancelled during a period of freezing temperatures, although they have since resumed.
However, the church remains without a functioning boiler and needs to raise funds for a full replacement, as parts for the existing 20-year-old system are no longer available.
Kath Pearson, churchwarden at Christ Church Walmsley, said: "We’re working tirelessly to protect this incredible building, but we urgently need help to fund essential repairs.
"As we count down to Christmas – our busiest time of year – we’re asking the community to come together and give whatever they can to keep Christ Church Walmsley open, warm, and welcoming for generations to come."
Earlier fundraising efforts were directed towards essential roof repairs, leaving the parish with limited funds for boiler replacement.
The church serves as a hub for village life, hosting services and community events including weddings, baptisms, funerals, and school gatherings.
Rev Ian Hepburn, priest in charge, said: "Christ Church Walmsley is a beautiful nineteenth-century church built from local stone and built upon the goodwill of the community.
"Parishioners are working hard to balance preserving this historic building with making it a warm, safe place to worship.
"We’ve faced major setbacks: a leaking roof, corroded pipes flooding the boiler house, and urgent plastering and redecoration.
"But we love our church and want it to remain a source of pride and joy for the whole community, pointing us to the peace and welcome of God.
"Our budgets are stretched to the limit, and we need your help. If you can donate to support us, every pound is greatly appreciated."
Ways to support include donating to the church's GoFundMe page, sharing the appeal on social media, attending events, or offering prayers.
A candlelight concert, one of the upcoming events and services, will take place on Friday, December 19.
For donations, visit www.gofundme.com/f/church-boiler-appeal or for more information on events, visit walmsleyparish.org/community.
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