Urgent repairs are under way as part of a major scheme to restore and enhance a historic church that had been threatened with closure.
Back in 2018, an appeal was launched to Raise the Roof at St Edmunds Church in Kessingland, with the community rallying round the campaign to raise funds for a new thatched roof and associated repairs.
There was a major boost to the campaign in January last year, as a crucial £168,000 was awarded from the National Lottery Heritage Fund.
Having been at the heart of one community for more than 500 years, last November the church - a landmark for seafarers since the mid-15th century - was added to Historic England's annual Heritage at Risk register.
And earlier this month scaffolding was installed around the Grade 1 listed church on Church Road, Kessingland as work began.
Services are continuing after being temporarily moved a short distance away to their Church Centre while the restoration continues.
Rector of Kessingland Benefice, the Rev Mandy Bishop said: "The church has a fine flintwork tower, but the 17th century thatched roof is in a dilapidated state and with additional water damage to the buttresses the church was officially declared ‘at risk’ and in danger of closure.
"We were told that the project to repair the church and re-thatch the chancel roof would cost £220,000 and were delighted when we heard that we had been awarded £168,000 from the National Lottery Heritage Fund so that the work could go ahead.
"The remainder of the cost has been raised by residents and supporters for which we are very grateful."
With baptisms, weddings and funerals - for the time being - being offered at Gisleham and Rushmere churches, the Kessingland churchyard remains open.
Rev Bishop added: "It is heartwarming to see the restoration work progressing on the roof and I appreciate all the effort that has gone into this project by many people to secure the long-term future of this vital and much-loved building for our community."
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here