A church in Hanworth in desperate need of carrying out restoration works and building improvements has launched Project Grow a £1.2m appeal.
St Richard's Church on Forge Lane, which is also home to St Richard's playgroup, is in a state of disrepair and requires a complete overhaul to bring the tired building back to life and transform it into a buzzing community hub.
But until full financial backing from fundraising, pledges and loans are secured, building work which has been approved by Hounslow Council cannot begin.
Church-goers have set up Project Grow as part of its plans to repair and redevelop the multi-use building, and vicar Craig Holmes has said "it's about put the worth back into Hanworth".
Joy Snoddy, who run St Richard's playgroup, said: "Our vision is to be a hub for our community, providing a place for activities and meetings.
"Through the church's activities we already provide essential services and support for children and families, and older people, in an area of socio-economic deprivation.
"All of this we want to do more of and to do better - space to grow what's already happening.
"We provide emergency food supplies, and advice for families in need, making links with professional support agencies.
"As well as the work our vicar does, we also employ a full time children and families outreach worker to support all that goes on, which is a sign of our commitment to the local community."
Plans for the revamped building include creating a larger worship area, a bigger playgroup, more youth clubs, opening a café, introducing more courses such as parenting and creating social spaces for meetings, exhibitions and concerts which are severely lacking in the area.
They also want to make room for more storage, provide better kitchen facilities, improved access for disabled people, better lighting and technical equipment.
There are a large number of problems with the 1960s centre starting with the church roof which has been leaking since thieves stripped the copper off it four years ago.
Although temporary measures have been taken, the felt is starting to degrade and has resulted in countless leaks in the church, while the spire is corroded and there is general poor construction.
A target of £200,000 has been set to be raised by the church community of which just under £100,000 has been received through fundraising, pledges and donations.
This includes Mr Holme's London Marathon run completed in three hours and 49 minutes, raising close to £1,000; a good as new sale which raised £1160; as well as a sponsored bike ride, quiz nights, coffee mornings, and a concert with Stuart Townend.
The church is preparing bids to obtain grants to boost the amount.
To sponsor vicar Craig Holmes visit https://mydonate.bt.com/charities/strichardschurchhanworth.
Next fundraising event: Get rid of clutter from the garage, shed or your drawers and sell off at the Table Top Sale in aid of Project Grow due to be held on Saturday May 9 at St Richard's Church Centre on Forge Lane, Hanworth, from 1.30pm to 5pm. Book a table for £10 and set up is at 11.30am - contact Joy or Hem on 07986784836 or 07538238873 or email playgroup@strichardshanworth.org
