A CAMPAIGN to raise £25,000 for essential repairs to the Norman parish church in Wilsford, near Pewsey, was launched on Sunday.

The Friends of St Nicholas Church officially came into being at a lawn service in the grounds of Wilsford House, where 76 members of the congregation were entertained by the Bratton Silver Band and a humorous talk by Judge Peter Mason QC.

Churchwarden Andy Hart said: "The Friends of St Nicholas Church has been set up to bring together those who care for the parish church and wish to conserve it for future generations.

"It is hoped that the friends will help the parochial church council to raise essential funds for repairs, and promote public awareness of the history of the church and its place within the parish history of Wilsford."

During the next 12 months the friends and the church council will need to raise more than £25,000 for essential roof repairs and woodworm treatment. Other projects on the cards include repairs to the church clock.