AN APPEAL has been launched to keep one of the area's most famous church spires illuminated.

The spire of St Lawrence's Church, Lechlade inspired poet Percy Shelley, pictured, to write his famous Stanzas in a Summer Evening Churchyard.

Several years ago, parishioners raised enough to light up the tower.

But now, the lights have failed, and around £300 is needed to fix the fault. The Rev Christopher Bryan said: "This beautiful church is the heart of the community, and it's our responsibly to keep that heritage going."Mr Bryan can be contacted on 01367 252262.