THE Courier has been thanked for its role in highlighting an appeal to replace the 50-year-old lighting and electrics at Crediton Parish Church. Following the publication of the story about the £120,000 appeal, the church received a £20,000 donation from a local resident.

The news of the generous donation was announced at the launch of the appeal, by the Rector, the Rev Nigel Guthrie.

With the £20,000 donation and £40,000 from the Friends of the Parish Church and other donations from individuals and local businesses, the appeal now stands at a staggering £71,000, more than half way to the target.