A COCKEREL has returned to roost at the top of a village church tower. Members of the Friends of Barkway Church, have been busy restoring the St Mary Magdalene Church, in Church Lane, Barkway for the past 30 years. Their latest project involved restorin

A COCKEREL has returned to roost at the top of a village church tower.

Members of the Friends of Barkway Church, have been busy restoring the St Mary Magdalene Church, in Church Lane, Barkway for the past 30 years.

Their latest project involved restoring the weather vane and cockerel at the top of the church's tower, which has received little attention since it was rebuilt in 1861.

Nicholas Tufton of the Friends of Barkway said: "I'm delighted with our new restoration, the feedback has been brilliant and worth the long wait.

"It looks splendid and hopefully it will make people look up and admire the structure of the church, because St Mary Magdalene has fine architecture.

"It's important for the church to have the cockerel restored - it represents the long history of the church."

The church's new feature cost just under £1,800, with the cockerel being painted in gold leaf. The weather vane's frames were also replaced after many of them had corroded away.

Other projects include the repairing of the church's flintwork and replacing the stone cross on the Chancel.

Priest Sarah Hillman said: "I am grateful for all the hard work that The Friends have given to raise money for these repairs. Well maintained buildings are an important feature of thriving village communities.

"Our church in Barkway is appreciated and supported by many beyond the church congregation.