An appeal has been launched to help restore a Grade-II listed church that needs a water supply, roof replacements, and drainpipe repairs.
St Michael & All Angels Church in Barningham, near Barnard Castle, is in much need of renovation work, which has sparked a fundraising page and a prize draw to try and make the repairs a reality.
According to those behind the effort, the funds will help "protect the important building for future generations" in a bid to try and raise £100,000.
Its earliest recorded Rector was William de Ridale in 1213 - showing how historical the church is and how vital it is for the village community.
Over the years the community has helped raise money to preserve it for future generations - but this church appeal is the largest one undertaken in Barningham.
So far, the campaign has already raised over £11,000 - which has been done via various fundraising projects - with hopes of securing match funding for the project in the future.
The project is required by Ann and Tony Orton, the treasurer and warden of the church, who have enlisted help from Barningham residents Rachel Drew and Alison Maddox to set up an online prize draw.
Through the draw, people can enter to win prizes, including spa treatments in Greta Bridge, meals at local restaurants, vouchers for local businesses, a four-day break at The Duck’s Nest Cottage in Barningham and holiday accommodation near Cape Town, South Africa.
Rachel Drew, who lives in Barningham, is helping with the fundraising and prize draw, said: "Tony and Ann got me involved to try and raise money for the church. It's such an important building locally - but needs help with running water, the roof, and adding a toilet and kitchen.
"It feels like our generation should be doing something to provide these historical churches for future generations.
"Hopefully it'll be a success and we get match funding in the future and reach our £100,000 target.
"We have had great support from the community and businesses and secured some great prizes.
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"We’re hoping we get support from locals, businesses and friends of friends far and wide and anyone who would like to help preserve a historic piece of Barningham."
Once the funds have been secured, the money will help to restore some structural issues, while the lead on the tower roof needs replacing and the guttering and the drainpipes need repairing.
Repointing and internal decoration are also needed, alongside a water supply, as well as a toilet and a small kitchenette.
People can enter the church appeal prize draw here.
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