St Helen’s Church, on Cross Hill, launched a restoration appeal in March in the hope of raising £200,000 within two years for vital repairs.

The church, which has been part of the community for more than 800 years, has no toilets, kitchen facilities or disabled access and the roof and wiring are in urgent need of repair.

English Heritage has pledged £59,000 to help with repairs to the roof and gutters.

Fr Robert Hart said: “We are absolutely delighted that English Heritage wants to support this important project.

“They came to assess the church and said it was well cared for and well maintained.

“This money will be put towards the £3,000 we have already received in donations. We are extremely grateful to everyone who has already donated.

“Even though there is a long way to go, we are on our way to reaching the £200,000 target.”

Work has started on rewiring and plans have been drawn up for toilets and disabled access.

Father Hart added: “The church belongs to the community and its doors are always open and welcoming to those who come and visit.

“We need people to keep on giving to the appeal. The development of the church is essential to the regeneration of Hemsworth.

“The whole town is changing and we want the church to provide a vibrant link between the past and future.”

The cash given to St Helen’s Church is part of £1.3m English Heritage and the Heritage Lottery Fund recently handed to historic churches throughout Yorkshire and Humber.

Maddy Jago, English Heritage regional director for planning and development, said: “These grants make a huge difference, helping congregations tackle urgently needed repairs.

“Working with the Heritage Lottery Fund we have been able to pledge £6.5m for 76 places of worship in Yorkshire and the Humber during the past six years.

“That support has proved crucial in keeping many historic and cherished buildings in good order. But places of worship continue to struggle to keep pace with a growing backlog of repairs.

“A longer-term solution is required and we will continue to push for this with our Inspired! campaign.”

Donations can be sent to Father Robert Hart at The Rectory, Church Close, Hemsworth, WF9 4SJ, or donate online at www.parishofhemsworth.org.uk