THE second phase of major works to repair and restore an Astley Church have been completed after the community raised more than £200,000 in five years to save it.

In 2005, the parishioners of Astley and Dunley embarked on a major project to save their Grade I listed St Peter’s Church.

Barbara Housman, secretary of The Friends of St Peter's Church, said: “The church would have closed by the end of that year if funds could not be found to repair it and restore it to its Grade I standard.

“A church has been on this site for 900 years and is very important, in archaeological and historical terms.”

Phase one, completed in 2008, involved the repair of the roofs of the main body of the church. Phase two, completed last month saw the repair and restoration of the parapets, corbels and roof of the tower.

The community supported the project by attending fund-raising events and giving private donations.

English Heritage granted £86,000 for phases one and two, with applications to other grant-giving bodies, including Severn Waste, All Churches Trust, Worcestershire and Dudley Historic Churches Trust, who have also supported the project.

Generous legacies from residents and former parishioners have also boosted the fund.

Fund-raising events were organised by the Friends of St Peter’s committee, such as an annual art exhibition, fête and fun quiz, picnic in the paddock, fashion shows, sponsored walks and musical evenings.

The next part of the project will see toilet facilities installed and an alternative access is now available for people with restricted mobility.

The next fund-raising event is the fifth annual art exhibition, to be held in the church on Saturday, October 16 from 1pm and Sunday, October 17 from 11am.

Several leading local artists will be showcasing their latest paintings, including Bewdley watercolour artist, John Instance, aircraft artist, Alan Varndell, Roderick Edwards, Lee Vincent and Giuliano Ponzi.