A MAJOR appeal to raise £410,000 for urgent repairs to the roof of a Grade II-Listed church in Raglan has been given a £30,000 funding boost.

The fundraising campaign was set up last year by the recently-retired Reverend Joan Wakeling, along with three parishioners, to help raise the cash to pay for the essential work to St Cadoc’s Church on Chepstow Road and improvements, such as installing a disabled toilet and kitchen.

A quinquennial inspection carried out last year made it clear that the entire roof should be replaced within 18 months, along with other works to the fabric of the church without delay.

Parishioners say the church plays an active role in the community - providing not only a centre for Christian worship with close links to the school, but a community facility that plays host to a range of groups and social events.

The Raise the Roof Campaign fundraising committee, which has raised more than £8,500 itself, has been awarded initial funding of £30,300 by the Heritage Lottery fund, with the possibility of a further £162,300 next year.

This means that work can begin in early 2015, with the first phase due to be completed in September, while the committee continues to raise the rest of the cash.

Rev Tim Clement, the newly-installed Vicar of St Cadoc’s, said of the lottery funding: “This is really encouraging and will help us on our way.”

“It is great to know that we are a step closer to preserving St Cadoc’s for future generations as an active place of worship and a resource for use by the whole community.”

The committee has had plans drawn up by a specialist architect and is applying for grants from Cadw but must raise £190,000 itself and has already held events such as quiz nights, coffee mornings, talks and a calendar.

To support the campaign visit www.raglan-parish.org.uk or follow the group on twitter @RaglanRoof