EFFORTS to refurbish one of the Lowestoft area's most scenic churches are set for a major boost – from a group of African tribal warriors.

After 12 years of fund-raising, work to build a new lobby, kitchen, creche and toilet at All Saints' and St Margaret's Church at Pakefield has finally started.

Now the congregation's efforts are set to be helped by a special performance by a travelling troupe of Maasai dancers from Kenya.

The Osiligi Maasai warrior troupe will bringing their passionate singing and dancing to the church on Saturday, October 16, with part of the proceeds helping to pay for the building work which is about six weeks away from completion.

Canon Bob Baker said: 'I used to live in Kenya so I have seen this type of dancing before and was very interested in bringing it to the church.

'It will be quite a sight to see them here, it's definitely something a bit different.'

The church improvement works, which will cost about �70,000, are expected to be finished in early November, ready to be officially opened by the Bishop of Norwich later in the year.

Mr Baker said: 'The work is under way and coming on very well.

'As always, our fund-raising continues and we've had an appeal in place for the past three months and we've raised nearly �13,000 from that alone.'

Tickets for the Osiligi Maasai warriors' performance are �10 for adults, �8 for senior citizens and �6 for children.

They are available from Morlings in London Road South, the Spar in Pakefield Street, the Oasis Christian book shop in Bevan Street or from the Rectory in The Causeway, Pakefield.