A 13TH century church ruin which is at the centre of a south Herefordshire village needs £30,000 worth of repairs.

The community of Llanwarne is launching a fundraising appeal to repair the walls and Lych-gate of the church ruin.

The ruin is a 2* scheduled ancient monument and is known as the 'church by the alder trees'.

The church of St John the Baptist was vacated in the mid-19th century as it was prone to flooding from the nearby Gamber Brook.

It is an open church where services are held during the year and is often used for romantic photograph opportunities at weddings and baptisms held in Christ Church.

The new Victorian church was built in 1864 and is a few hundred yards away.

Trevor Gregory who is supporting the appeal said: "The church ruins are a popular place for visitors to come and explore the tranquil setting which is steeped in history and the repairs are vital to ensure it is safe for visitors and community events such as the village annual fete, music concerts and ‘Arts Alive’ dramas to continue to take place."

The appeal launch is being supported by local artist, Jill Bonner, who has designed the logo and is also painting a large canvas which will be auctioned at a future fundraising event.

An open-air mini market in the grounds of the ruin will take place on May 15, from 10am to 12.30pm (if it is wet the market will be held in Christ Church).

Anybody who can help the appeal fund is asked to email: stjohnpreservation@gmail.com or visit them on Facebook: St John’s Llanwarne preservation appeal.