AN AMBITIOUS project will be officially launched next week to raise £500,000 for the restoration of a 14th century church. The Friends of St Mary s appeal, which it is hoped will raise the money needed to renovate the parish church in Baldock, will be lau

AN AMBITIOUS project will be officially launched next week to raise £500,000 for the restoration of a 14th century church.

The Friends of St Mary's appeal, which it is hoped will raise the money needed to renovate the parish church in Baldock, will be launched in the church next Thursday, April 27, at 7.30pm.

Visitors will be able to watch a presentation about the work that needs to be done on the building and hear a talk about the church's history. Refreshments will be available.

The restoration is an important and necessary project and Mike Lapsley, of the Friends of St Mary's committee, hopes Baldock residents will be able to help in any way they can.

Mr Lapsley said: "There are a number of items that need repairing and updating within the building, including crumbling pews and masonry. The clock tower needs to be worked on and so do the bells.

"This is work that has possibly been overlooked for too long and like a lot of old churches St Mary's needs bringing up to date and made good.

"The church has a long and varied history, and was one of the last stops for Charles I before he was taken back to London in 1569 to be executed. It would be a real shame not to keep it in the condition that it deserves to be kept in.

"Residents can become a Friend of St Mary's by donating an annual £25 to the church, for which they will receive a nice lapel badge and a regular newsletter.

"They will also be happy in the fact that they know this wonderful building will be in a good condition for years to come.