ST Andrew’s Church in Whitestaunton is set for further renovations after being awarded thousands of pounds from the Big Lottery.

The church was successful in its application under the ‘Awards for All’ scheme to improve its community uses for the building.

It will receive £6,700 to go towards a new toilet and pathway, and to have the existing path edged and re-surfaced.

Church warden Rob Kemp said: “We’re over the moon. This helps us open our church to the community in a more meaningful way, which is, of course, the purpose.”

The news comes after Yarcombe Young Farmers adopted the church as their community project this year.

They have already given their time and resources to build a pathway from the site previously occupied by the Manor Rooms to the Church Road Porch, where off-road parking can now be accessed.

Mr Kemp thanked the 15 YFC members for all their hard work.

He said: “It’s fabulous that young people think of their community.

“They did a very good job and we’re truly grateful.”

The Lottery work is set to be carried out in November and the project follows a successful heating scheme installed in the building three years ago.

The church has applied for further grants for re-leading the windows on both sides of the building and is expecting to hear the results next month.

A HARVEST festival service is being held at the church at 6.30pm on Sunday, October 9, followed by an auction.

There will be an All Souls Service at 3pm on Sunday, October 30, to remember those who have passed away.