Fundraising begins after lead theft from iconic church

Following the theft of lead from Lavenham Church’s Roof, leaving a repair bill in the region of £150,000, a sale has been organised in the first step to raise funds to pay for the repairs.

On Monday night, under the cover of darkness, about 225 square metres of lead was stolen from the church roof, the theft and subsequent leaks causing around £150,000 worth of damage.

Already the community has joined with the church’s congregation in rallying around to support the “Raise the Roof” appeal.

Its first fundraising event takes place on Monday when from 10am to 3pm in the grounds of Lavenham Church, a bring and buy sale will take place. Everyone is invited to bring along unwanted items which can be sold in aid of the appeal.

The Reverend Stephen Earl who is Rector of Lavenham Church, said: “Whilst we have been devastated by the theft, we have been greatly encouraged by the messages of support from within the local community and beyond.

“Our sale kick starts our fundraising appeal, and as it takes place at the same time as the hugely popular Lavenham Carnival we hope that we can encourage as many people to come along and snap up a bargain, whilst at the same time raise funds towards the repair of the roof.”