A YEAR on and All Saints Church, High Laver, has raised half the £130,000 it needs to save its ailing roof.

A wet August, however, dampened fundraisers' spirits after heavy downpours hastened the deterioration of the church's ancient roof.

Churchwarden Margaret Morgan said: "The rain is coming in through a hole in the ceiling, and if we don't do something now we will lose our church."

The church launched a buy a tile - save a roof' campaign last September, whereupon benefactors could purchase a personalised tile for £5. So far the initiative has raised £2,000 towards the repair fund.

Coffers further swelled in March with a £49,000 English Heritage and Heritage Lottery Fund Repair Grant, but fundraisers say more donations are needed as the church slips further into disrepair.

With regard to the ceiling, Mrs Morgan said: "We'd like to retain the plaster ceiling, which we suspect is very old, however, we fear replacing the tiles will weaken the frail ceiling and lead to its collapse."

The Grade-II listed church boasts among its past parishioners influential 17th Century English philosopher John Locke, who is buried in the churchyard. Mrs Morgan says many people have donated because of their connections with the English empiricist.

She said: "He was a regular churchgoer and who is to say how his experiences at the church may have affected his philosophical thinking? I think he would be very pleased with our efforts."

To make a contribution ring Margaret Morgan on 01279 731244 or write to her at Faggotters Farm, Faggotters Lane, Matching Tye, Harlow, Essex, CM17 ONU.

- Magdalen Laver Village Hall is hosting a magic night at 7.30pm tomorrow. Tickets, priced £12, include a ploughman's lunch. All proceeds go towards the roof fund. For tickets, ring Mrs Morgan on 01279 731244.