A village was grooving to the sound of jazz music last weekend as funds were raised to help restore a church.

The St Mary’s Church Restoration Committee hosted a Jazz Lunch in the Vicarage Gardens on Sunday.

Jazz band Bob Dwyer’s Bix and Pieces were on hand to serenade guests.

Jane Allton, from the St Mary’s Church Restoration Committee, said: “This event was to raise funds for significant improvements of the internal facilities at St Mary’s. These include the creation of a more flexible space for events and activities, the provision of kitchen and toilet facilities.

“It was a blustery afternoon, but we all enjoyed a great meal in the Vicarage garden and were treated to the brilliant jazz from the band.”

The lunch saw Canon Shamus Williams, Rector at the church, presented with a cheque for £18,000 from the restoration committee. Village charity Wheels for Martin’s Friends also contributed £2,000 which will fund the cost of a new disabled toilet.