A CHURCH in Lymm is considering putting up gates to protect against continued vandalism in its porch.

St Mary's in Lymm was hit by vandals who completely destroyed a bench earlier in the year.

But evidence of damage to the other bench in the porch has now been shown and the church says it is still finding litter, debris and used, empty drug packets within the porch area.

The plan is now to install gates to secure the porch, at a cost of around £5,000.

Rev Beverley Jameson, Rector of St Mary's, said: "We have a great deal of building maintenance before us this year with permanent repairs to the ceiling and five year annual survey of the church in the autumn to identify future repair work.

"Therefore we are launching an appeal to raise funds initially for the provision of gates and if we raise more than the amount needed for the installation of gates this will go to general maintenance of the ceiling, roof and building maintenance."

And support for the appeal has already been strong in the village.

Rev Bev added: "I know the people of Lymm are remarkably generous.

"We have already received donations from individuals and Lymm & District Round Table.

"St Mary’s has been at the heart of the Lymm for hundreds of years I pray we can continue to be at the heart of our community, protecting the building from vandals, the wind the hail and the rain to enable us to open our doors to everyone.

"Please consider giving a donation.”

To send a donation, send a cheque made payable to Lymm PCC to 46 Rectory Lane, Lymm WA13 0AL.