PRAYERS at Okehampton's St James Chapel have been answered after it received a generous grant to replace the roof of its tower.
The work has been made possible by a grant of £12,000 from Okehampton United Charity and will go towards a new roof and repairing the timber below.
Chair of St James Trustees the Rev Stephen Cook said the roof had been patched up over the years and needed to be replaced: 'It will be a great relief to have the work done and to know the fabric is secure for future generations.
'We are also extremely grateful to Okehampton United for making the work possible.'
Treasurer of Okehampton (United) Ecclesiastical Charity Trust George Maddaford said: 'It is an essential need to repair and put a new roof on an historic tower.
'The lead needs renewing and the decking below, so it will make a big difference to the church.'
Mr Maddaford said the church does not belong to any one denomination.
'It is the trustees' job to maintain the upkeep of the 14th century tower and see that any work needing to be done is completed.'
The chapel has a small income from historic trusts and grants, which over the years has been built up to help pay for major repairs.
Work on the tower will start on Monday February 9 and last for three to four weeks. The church will remain open for normal service and prayer.