THE last clap for carers took on a special meaning for a rural parish battling to save its ancient church.

As the sun dropped low over St Sampson’s Church in South Hill, 17-year-old trumpet player Marcus Coleridge performed ‘Somewhere Over the Rainbow’ to a group of villagers who had gathered.

‘I wanted to do something particularly special to celebrate the amazing work that our key workers have been doing,’ said Marcus. ‘Our small community in South Hill has been brought together on Thursday evenings banging our pans and ringing our bells to show our thanks.

‘With the beautiful sunset on the stunning local scenery, it felt like the perfect place to show our gratitude one last time.’

The church gate has become the Thursday evening meeting point for the clap for carers, and in the background is a determined campaign to rescue this 14th Century building and maintain it for people of all ages.

The Grade I listed church acts as a hub for the active community of South Hill, and has been a ‘beacon of hope’ during the pandemic, say residents. But its very fabric is under threat: closure looms, as the roof and ceiling are unsafe and in dire need of repair.

Work is also needed to the tower and the floor and internal upgrades are required to make the building fit for purpose into the future.

Estimates for all the refurbishments come in at around half a million pounds.

And while grants are available, the small community must show it has fundraised a significant amount before these can be unlocked.

The group CRUX (Cherished, Restored, Unlocked Church at South Hill) was formed and began fundraising around a year ago; so far it has raised £8,000.

A spokesperson said: ‘We are looking to fundraise £500,000 to keep this crucial community hub going and preserve this key piece of Cornish history.

Value

‘St Sampson’s Church is a beautiful place and off the beaten track. There is a lot of history connected with it, including Bishop Trelawny’s first parish, and the high possibility of St Sampson founding a monastery here. Without help, our small, but active, congregation will not be able to maintain the fabric of the building.

‘The wider community value St Sampson’s and have suggested over one hundred uses for it, but we need to make the building weatherproof and fix the roof, the ceiling, the windows, the tower, the floor and, most importantly, install a toilet and kitchen so that everyone can fully use this amazing place.’

Founder of CRUX, Jane Newberry, said: ‘It is really tough right now, having to cancel our fundraising events because of COVID-19.

‘However, seeing Marcus play in the setting of this beloved church is hugely uplifting.

‘I believe we can reach our target and I am grateful to have such dedicated volunteers supporting the cause. If everyone who sees Marcus’ video were to donate £1, we would be well on our way to reaching our target.’

To find out more about CRUX or make a donation, go to www.justgiving.com/campaign/StSampsons-Church-SouthHill-Cornwall