By ADAM LAZZARI THE late poet Sir John Betjeman once said it was worth cycling 40 miles into a headwind to see St Wendreda s Church, in March. So our award-winning photographer Brian Purdy took the opportunity take this collection of stunning photographs

By ADAM LAZZARI

THE late poet Sir John Betjeman once said it was worth cycling 40 miles into a headwind to see St Wendreda's Church, in March.

So our award-winning photographer Brian Purdy took the opportunity take this collection of stunning photographs of the building widely regarded to be the jewel in the crown of the town.

The church is world famous for its magnificent double-hammer beam roof with 120 carved angles, which visitors travel from far and wide to admire.

Reverend Cannon Peter Baxandall said: "St Wendreda's Church is the major tourist attraction in Fenland.

"In the last year we have had more visitors than normal. We've had people from America, Canada, Japan and all over the place."

But now the church faces the major challenge of trying to raise £100,000 by the end of the year to pay for essential repairs.

About £190,000 is needed to pay for repairs to the north parapet, above the door.

English Heritage will provide the church with £150,000 if the parochial church council can prove that £40,000 can be raised locally.

The church is also raising money to pay off a loan for work on the hall.

Rev Baxandall said: "We've got plans on how to raise the money, but nothing is set in stone. It will be a huge challenge.

"We are looking to create a modern website for people from all over the world to see and donate to the cause if they wish to."

Anyone wishing to make a donation to St Wendreda's Church can do so by contacting Rev Baxandall on 01354 653377.