A HISTORIC Blackheath church is launching a fundraising appeal to help it carry out urgent repairs ahead of a significant anniversary.

Scaffolding has been erected over the whole of St Paul’s Church in Long Lane as extensive repairs to the roof, guttering and stonework is carried out.

But the total cost of the repairs is expected to reach around £50,000 and the church is setting up a fund for donations to ensure the much-needed work can be carried out.

St Paul’s is also set to celebrate its 150th anniversary in just two years’ time and a series of fundraising events is planned in the build-up to that landmark to help cover the costs.

The vicar, Revd Mike Sermon said they needed the support of the local community to ensure the church can carry on serving the parish for many years beyond the 150th birthday.

He said: “St Paul’s is undergoing extensive repairs to the roof and stonework.

“The church will be celebrating its 150th anniversary in 2019 and these essential repairs are being done to ensure that the building will continue to serve as the parish church of Blackheath for many years to come.

“The support of the local community is needed to help meet the costs of scaffolding and the roof repairs.

“A 150th Anniversary Appeal Fund is being launched and events are being planned to help raise funds for the church.”

Anyone wishing to make a donation towards the cost of repairing the church building can either visit the church or contact the office on 0121 559 0072.