WORK to carry out major repairs to a Grade II-listed Raglan church will begin next week.

The committee behind the appeal to raise almost £410,000 for the repairs and improvements to St Cadoc’s Church has been given the go-ahead 30 months after launching the campaign.

More than £200,000 has been raised so far which include a £147,000 grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund and £35,000 by the community, enabling work to begin.

The ‘Raise the Roof’ appeal was launched by parishioners in October 2013 after a quinquennial inspection made it clear that the entire roof should be replaced along with other works carried out to the fabric of the church.

As well as repairs to the roof, gutters and tower buttresses, other improvements need to be made such as installing a disabled toilet and kitchen and improving access.

Following a meeting between the appeal’s committee members, the architect and contractors it was agreed that the work will begin on May 9.

Scaffolding and fencing will be put up around the church and there will be limited access to the building during weekdays. The work is expected to continue until August.

Community fundraising co-ordinator, Beverley Jones said the committee is thrilled that permission has been granted to begin work.

She added: “This long-awaited news follows the success of the 30 month campaign to-date which has seen many grants awarded. These plus the amazing community fundraising which now stands at over £35,000 has ensured that this wonderful 14th century church can be repaired so that it may continue to provide a place of worship and community events for many years to come.”

The next fundraiser will be a treasure hunt starting at the Chepstow Road car park at 3pm on June 26. Tickets are £10 per head and include a buffet.

To support the campaign visit www.raglan-parish.org.uk or follow the group on twitter@RaglanRoof