Fundraising call from St Margaret’s Church in Cley begins with Norwich Cathedral Choir concert

St Margaret's Church in Cley which is in need of restoration work. PHOTO: ANTONY KELLY (Image: Archant Norfolk 2014)

St Margaret's Church in Cley-next-the-Sea, largely built in the 15th century, is bitterly cold in winter and lacks essential facilities.

And now a team led by the parochial church council and Reverend Libby Dady, is launching a campaign to transform the ancient building into a warm and welcoming church.

Mrs Dady, who took up the position in January, said the fundraising concert was part of a scheme to use the church creatively.

She said: 'Here we are in north Norfolk there is no hiding from the weather, some people get very cold.

'And people here have a huge interest, even those who might not be interested in worship or the church community.'

The planned improvements will include under-floor heating, a new kitchen and toilet while respecting the church's heritage.

Mr Cole, 71, who moved to the village in 1990 after retiring from the army, said he was delighted the cathedral choir was showing its support.

He said: 'Some choirs love to sing in these places because it is such a lovely acoustic, we hope to fill the church.'

And David Barron, 66, said the church once housed statues of the 12 apostles which according to legend were dumped in Cley harbour in the 16th century, which previously ran right up to the church yard.

He hopes to involve local schools in the search for the ancient statues, using laser technology.

Like many of north Norfolk's villages, the congregation swells in the summer when holiday makers and those with second homes return to the village.

And the Cley 14 art exhibition, held in the church, is expected to attract thousands to the building in July. Tickets for the concert are available at the Made in Cley gallery or on the evening on May 3 at 7pm.

Are you restoring an ancient building? Email sabah.meddings@archant.co.uk