FEARS have been raised a church roof is close to collapsing because it has fallen into such a state of disrepair.

Parishoners at St Nicholas Church, in Church Hill, Laindon, have already raised more than £40,000 towards much-needed work, but they desperately need more cash.

During his latest inspection, church warden Peter Hartgrove discovered the timber beams have begun to rot away.

Two years ago, woodpeckers created holes in the roof, and the problems have since worsened because of rain seeping in. Mr Hartgrove said: “The roof is just about holding up at the moment. I’ve got a special seat I sit in at the church, and it’s always got a puddle on it now because the roof is leaking so badly.

“It’s getting serious, and we desperately need to raise more money. I’m worried it’s getting to the point where the church is going to be dangerous. If those timbers go, it will just be the main beam holding the whole building up.”

The church congregation initially estimated the major refurbishment project would cost £112,000 – but they now fear it could be much more.

Plans for the listed building, which dates back to the 12th century, also include adding a weathercock for the spire, adding masonry at the base of the entrance steps, reconstructing retaining walls, resurfacing concrete paths, revamping the spire and re-cladding the tower walls.

Rev Andrei Petrine, who took over as vicar of St Nicholas a week ago, said: “It’s a beautiful, historic church full of wonderful people, who are very committed.

“There is always something going on and it’s a very busy place, which serves the community well.

“Just imagine what the area would be like without it? Soon it might be too late to save it.”