WITH its place at the very heart of Alresford, St John’s Church has a history going back over a thousand years, with the current site mentioned in the Domesday Book of 1086.

The church today is a late Victorian reconstruction, except for the flint tower walls, much of which is around a thousand years old.

No great surprise then that the lovely old red-tiled roof as well as the tower and additional stonework has become in need of urgent repair.

Some months ago a working committee was set up to raise the massive amount of £50,000 required to undertake all of the restorative work.

Several months later, after concerts, theatre productions, suppers, sponsored bell peals and lots more, the fundraising appeal is approaching its target.

Helping organisations who go out of their way to help themselves is central to what The Pigs do, so up stepped chairman, Phil Withington-Smith to present a £500 cheque and a brand new roof tile to Reverend Phil Collins.

A delighted Mr Collins said: “Thank you so much for this lovely cheque to help us on our way. Your contribution is really appreciated. We will have to find a special slot on the roof for the The Pigs tile!”

It’s hoped that the fundraising will conclude by the end of the year, brought to a successful conclusion with a scarecrow competition over the weekend of September 26-28. All shapes & sizes are, apparently welcomed!

For further information email events@stjohnsalresford.org.uk or call 01962 733545.