Conservation plan for St Laurence's Church

A series of activities planned to help raise £27,000 to maintain one of Shropshire's oldest churches has been unveiled.

The Conservation Trust for St Laurence's Church in Ludlow is planning a weekend of events to help the 800-year-old church.

Stephen Treasure, managing director of Treasure and Son in Ludlow, will discuss conservation work.

Simon Buteux, consultant archaeologist and owner of the Reader's House, is presenting a case history on its conservation and restoration. They will be speaking as part of a stone carving festival planned for May 21 and 22.

Bill Lloyd-Kitchen, trust chairman, said: "Our programme begins with a series of illustrated lectures. Tickets cost £10 per person."

Rosemary Wood, a trustee, said: "We are delighted to be working with members of both the conservation trust and Ludlow Historical Research Group.

"Our walks will be led by Michael Page, Michael Rosenbaum and Jonathan Wood, from the Ludlow Historical Research Group, and we are delighted that Colin Richards, MBE, head of historical environment at Shropshire Council, has agreed to not only lead one of the tours but to also stage a demonstration of brick-making using local clay."

Details of the Ludlow Conservation Weekend can be found at www.stlaurences.org.uk

To receive the seminar programme and registration form call Rosemary Wood on (01584) 877771 or e-mail rosemary.wood3@virgin.net