A CAMPAIGN has been launched to restore one of Guiseley's oldest landmarks.

St Oswald's Church announced its Tower Repair Fund at its Christmas Fair on Saturday as the first step towards raising the money needed to protect the historic structure.

Rector, the Rev David Pickett, said: "We’ve got to raise £82,000 to keep St Oswald’s Church tower standing and we really need the support of the local community to reach our target."

The tower, built in the 15th century, has structural problems and water is getting into its brickwork, meaning funds for repairs are needed urgently. It is home to eight church bells, rung for services, weddings and special events, and which are a familiar sound to everyone who lives in and around Guiseley.

Held at Guiseley Primary School, the fair is one of the church’s busiest community events of the year, and saw a record number of visitors this time around.

Sue Barber, one of the organisers, said: "The team of helpers serving afternoon teas was absolutely run off its feet all afternoon.

"Luckily, people at church had generously donated lots of home-baking, so at least we didn’t run out of cakes."

A high-striker game at the fair proved popular, allowing people to test their strength whilst donating £1 to the Tower Fund with every attempt. The youngest winner of the competition was eight-year-old Charlotte Bennett-Todd.

There are plans for a range of fundraising events at the church and a MyDonate online donations page is being set up. Visit guiseleywithesholt.org.uk or find St Oswald’s Church on Facebook and Twitter for more details.