A FUNDRAISING appeal to repair the bell tower of a church near Inkberrow is now three quarters of the way towards its target.

As previously reported, the Grade I-listed St Peter's Church, in Abbots Morton, needs £40,000 to repair the top of the crumbling stonework on its 14th Century bell tower.

But thanks to a recent 1970s night which raised £711, the total now stands at £30, 297.

More than 70 people turned out for the event in Abbots Morton's village hall to hear music from the 70s played from original vinyl discs by former DJ David Smith, who is now an Abbots Morton Parish Councillor.

Guests enjoyed traditional 70s food of "chicken and chips in the basket" and Black Forest gateau.

Colin Pemberton, appeal chairman, said: "The 70s night was absolutely brilliant. It was pure nostalgia for the oldies and something of an eye-opener for the youngsters.

"We are so grateful to everyone who's supported us so far and who've taken the fund to the three-quarter mark."

The Bell Tower Fund has also been boosted by grants from a number of charitable trusts and by a several personal donations

For details about the appeal, visit abbotsmorton.co.uk.