EAGERLY awaited works to preserve Chiddingfold’s landmark Grade One listed church got under way this week, following a successful appeal to raise £200,000.

Parishioners and supporters rallied to the cause after hearing urgent repairs were needed, when a fundraising appeal committee, chaired by Christine Tebbot, was launched in May 2015.

On Sunday, a special evening service was held at St Mary’s Church to celebrate the start of building works, attended by the Lord Lieutenant of Surrey, Michael More-Molyneux, and his wife Sarah, the Archdeacon of Surrey, the Venerable Stuart Beake and his wife Sally, Waverley Deputy Mayor Simon Inchbald and his wife Rosie, Chiddingfold deputy parish chairman Roger Underwood and his wife Gill.

Chiddingfold rector Rev Mary Brough said: “Over 100 visitors and parishioners attended to celebrate our church’s heritage, to give thanks for the generosity of those who have supported the appeal and to pray for the safety and wellbeing of all who will be involved with the work.

“The renovations will involve a total replacement of tiles on the church roof, porch and lych gate, and for reasons of safety and practicality the church will be fully scaffolded throughout.

“It is hoped the project will be completed by Christmas and the church will be open midweek and for Sunday services as usual.

“Access to both gardens of remembrance should remain possible, when visiting please speak ask to speak to the site foreman if you are unsure.”

Pictured from the left, Sue Smith (church warden), Alan Martin (project manager), committee members Ruth Goddard and Jan Fellingham, the Venerable Stuart Beake, Rev Sarah Brough, Christine Tebbot, Andrew Steward (treasurer), Jane Bell (committee member), and church warden Irving Johnson.