Churchgoers from three parishes in the Maldon District have come together to raise funds for repairs to their churches, through an event on Sunday July 10.

Construction at St Andrews Church in Althorne began in 1296, and it has suffered from cracks 'from floor to ceiling' for centuries.

Peter Ingram, a member of St Andrews' Parochial Church Council (PCC) told Nub News the damage had got significantly worse over the last few years.

He said: "We had to remove some of the stained-glass windows because they were in danger of breaking.

"There are cracks in the walls that are so big, you can fit your hand through them."

A drawing of the Church by A.J. Taylor, 1976

Mr Ingram says the chancel (the space around the altar) is moving away from the nave (the central part of the church), leaving a visible tilt.

The church has already undergone three surveys, costing approximately £20,000. Its fourth survey will be a geotechnical investigation, to gather information about the physical characteristics of the soil and rocks which make up the land the church stands on.

All Saints' Church, Creeksea, and St Lawrence & All Saints Church, Steeple, are also in need of repairs, which is why churchgoers have teamed up to organise July's Wheels and Paws event.

Wheels and Paws will be a unique combination of a motor show along with a dog show.

Organiser Mr Ingram says there will be 'something for the whole family'.

He said: "We want to make it a family day out, so everyone including the kids, mum, dad, nan and grandad can enjoy it."

Peter Marshall, from St Lawrence & All Saints Church, runs 'The Eccentrics', a group of like-minded vehicle enthusiasts. He will be helping to organise the historic vehicle aspect of the event.

He told Nub News the variety will "broaden the appeal to almost everyone".

Following a 'Wheels and Hooves' event at Elmwood Equestrian Centre in July last year, Anne Hull, proprietor at the centre, is keen to support the local churches.

This year's event will also be held at the Equestrian Centre, in Burnham on Crouch.

Admission is free, but volunteers will be accepting donations. All proceeds from the event will be split three ways by the churches, to help fund their repairs.

For more information, contact Jean Ingram on 01621 741564, or send an email.