Generous residents of a Norfolk town are being urged to back an appeal to raise �75,000 to prevent an historic church window from collapsing.

So far, St Mary's Church in Diss has raised �61,000 to pay for lead around the stained glass east window to be replaced and restoration work on three smaller windows.

But Rev Maggie Swayzey, spokesman for the church, appealed for more cash for the window, which dates back to Victorian times and depicts the story of Christ's birth, death and resurrection.

She added: 'It is not a danger to the public. It is not going to hurt anybody at the moment, but the re-lead work has got to be done at some point.'

Since the launch of the appeal in May, about �54,000 has been collected through church funds, private donations and fundraising events, but officials continue to urge people to back the campaign.

An auction of promises event at Diss Corn Hall in September raised more than �8,000.

The east window at St Mary's was installed in 1857 in memory of Rev William Manning, who was rector of Diss from 1811 to 1857.

It is hoped the work will be able to begin in spring next year, if the remaining funds can be found.

The Diss Church Christmas Fayre will take place at the church and hall on November 26 between 9.30am and 1.30pm and will feature a Father Christmas, Bric-a-Brac, books and home made cakes.

To help with the fundraising, contact the parish office in Mount Street, Diss, on 01379 643783.