WENSLEYDALE'S newest clergyman will be throwing his weight behind a public appeal as soon as he takes up his new ministry this week.

The Reverend Christopher Huggett will be invested as the vicar of St Matthew's, in Leyburn, and St John's, in Bellerby, at a service led by the Bishop of Ripon and Leeds tomorrow.

Once the ceremony is over, one of his priorities will be the restoration of the roof of St John's.

The local community has already raised £10,000 towards the work.

Now, with another £15,000 still to find, the search for cash is spreading further afield.

The St John's Parochial Church Council is hoping to hear from individuals or businesses able to contribute raffle prizes or any other fundraising ideas.

"The problem is that many of our churches were built by the Victorians and, now they have stood for 100 years, they all need repairs," said Mr Huggett, who arrives in Wensleydale from Garstang in Lancashire.

"My wife and I both intend to involve ourselves in community life as much as possible once we are settled in our new home."