Having realised that Christ Church in Henton, near Wells, needed revitalising the villagers decided that the whole building must have a major makeover.

The severely uncomfortable pews will be replaced with comfortable seats. A new kitchen and heating, audio and lighting systems will be installed, the toilet will be updated, and the walls painted to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere.  

This ambitious plan will cost £350,000 which can be raised with grant funding once £90,000 has been achieved. £75,000 has already been raised from concerts, talks and their very successful Flower Festival.  

The next event is the Grand Auction in Cedars Hall, Wells on Tuesday July 9. More than 30 lots include items as diverse as an underwater hockey experience to gravalax-making lessons; from a day with a racehorse owner to two tickets with lunch in the Directors' Suite at Southampton Football Club and many more.  

Top lot is a stay for ten people for five days in the www.chateaudemissery.com with 14th century medieval towers and a wonderful kitchen garden; a Black Tie dinner is included and a visit to Guedelon where artisans are building an authentic medieval Chateau using medieval tools, plus a wine tasting and cookery demonstration.