Originally built in 975AD, the Minster as it eventually became known, was handsomely funded by Lady Godiva and her husband Leofric before serving as the abbey church to St Hugh of Lincoln.

However, by the early 19th century it was left derelict and in great danger of being pulled down, saved only by visionary vicar Rev George Atkinson, who bankrupted himself, and the great architect, Pearson.

And now, some 200 years later the church, voted as one of the five top tourist attractions in West LIndsey, is once again in danger.

But in an effort to preserve the historic building for generations to come, a group of local people have launched The Friends of Stow Minster - a plan intended to help secure the building’s future and promote a five-year-progamme intended to draw attention to its problems and what can be done about them.

“We have mapped out a four-phase repair programme which will cost around £2 million,” said Friends chairman, Peter Leonard.

“And in the meantime, to help with the fund-raising we organised a programme of social events to invite local people to join us and give on a regular basis.

“One of these was to officially launch the group.”

“Around 300 people came along and got to know what we are all about and enjoy a good-fun day at the same time.”

Also joining in was Lincoln-based musician Dante Ferrara and members of the Gainsborough Theatre Company dressed in period costume.

“The first job is to keep the water by repairing the roof. Then we need to sort out the drainage,” said Mr Leonard.

“We have completed work on the north and south transept - the next phase is the chancel and then we will continue through the nave and tower. We estimate it will take around five years to complete.”

“Unfortunately, obtaining grants isn’t easy - there’s a lot of competition for what is available.”

Anyone wishing to joining the Friends of Stow Minster can obtain more information from Mr Leonard, by picking up literature from the church or by logging onto:www.stowminster.org.uk