ONE year on and a church has reached the £100,000 mark. St Katharine s Church in Ickleford began the quest last spring to raise £225,000 to restore its precious building and after a year of successful fundraising they ve made a significant start. The Rev

ONE year on and a church has reached the £100,000 mark.

St Katharine's Church in Ickleford began the quest last spring to raise £225,000 to restore its precious building and after a year of successful fundraising they've made a significant start.

The Rev Margaret Holford is delighted with the fundraising efforts.

She said: "Thank you to anyone and everyone who has supported us in anyway.

"We are appreciative of donations, no matter how small.

"The amount of effort that has gone into raising this money has been amazing."

And the money-making efforts are still in full swing.

On Saturday (May 13) they will be holding an auction at Ickleford Village Hall.

Lots include a stay in a French cottage, a day at Lord's to watch county cricket, a home cooked dinner party for six and many more.

Doors open at 7.30pm with the bidding starting at 8pm.

The Rev Holford is keen to see the work on St Katharine's begin, saying: "We can expect to see the scaffolding going up this year.