A NEW campaign has started to preserve the historic wealth of an ancient Swindon church.

The Friends of Lydiard Park, which is devoted to supporting the conservation of Lydiard house and park, is set to launch a new volunteer programme to preserve St. Mary’s church at Lydiard Tregoze.

It is currently is undergoing a £1 million restoration project supported by Heritage Lottery Fund, The Friends and other donors to conserve its nationally important medieval wall paintings and historic art interiors.

Sarah Finch-Crisp said: “The Friends are really excited about the volunteer launch.

“We have donated over £100,000 to the conservation project and we are delighted to be hosting this event for St. Mary’s.

“There are so many opportunities for people to get involved, learn new skills and have fun at the same time.”

People who want to join the new programme can apply for one of the volunteer roles available, including providing tours, conservation care of historic furnishings and objects, helping with schools and many more.

“We need to bring more volunteers at the church," said Paul Gardner, chairman of the conservation project.

"Volunteering is a great way to discover more about St. Mary’s rich heritage."

St. Mary’s church, located within Lydiard Park, has a great art collection and is renowned as one of the most important small parish churches in the country.

Paul added: “People may have skills and ways of volunteering which we haven’t even thought of and we are keen to hear from anyone who is interested whether they are already very familiar with the church or have never visited before.

“The Friends of Lydiard Park are key partners. They have donated one of the biggest amounts of money to the conservation project.

“This restoration project is set to be completed by mid-2020.”

The Fund will also be used to provide new heating and lighting, to improve access and repair historic pews for the congregation.

Anyone interested in registering for the event on May 2 at Lydiard Park Conference Centre will need to email St. Mary’s Church office: wspartnershipoffice@gmail.com

There are also a limited number of volunteer training placements to work with the church’s internationally renowned team of wall painting conservators.

For those interested, a minimum commitment of two working weeks is required and candidates should also contact the partnership office.