KIDDERMINSTER Male Choir have given a generous donation to a historical church’s public appeal to fund repairs to its building, which was desecrated by thieves earlier this year.

The choir have donated £400 to St Mary and All Saints Church’s appeal, after an amount of lead was taken from the roof of the Grade One Listed building in May.

But the damage caused, exasperated by heavy rain fall shortly after the theft, has left the church facing a repair bill of tens of thousands of pounds.

Nigel Wolfenden, Kidderminster Male Choir’s publicity officer, said: “We practice each week, both in the chantry and the actual church, which unfortunately serves to remind the choristers of the devastating consequences of the theft of the lead from the roof.

“The least the choir could do was to donate £400 towards the ongoing fundraising to restore the fabric of the church.

“This money was raised from a concert recently held St Mary’s Church involving Steeton MVC from Yorkshire.

“As a charitable organisation, we attempt to support others in the community with our charity work.”

As a result of the damage caused and following very heavy rain, the interior walls of the building, parts of which date back as early as 1300, will have to be thoroughly cleaned and re-painted.

The organ, which is described as being of “cathedral proportions”, has suffered damage estimated at £10,000 and an intricate parapet, also damaged in the theft will cost a further £12,000.

The cost of replacing the stolen lead and repairing the roof accounts for another £15,000.

Anyone wishing to donate can do so by either contacting the Parish Office on 01562 751923, Nigel Preece on 07776 464347 or by sending donations to St Mary and All Saints Parish Office, Churchfields, Kidderminster DY10 2JN.