PARISHONERS at a church in a tiny Wolds village are hoping that the auction of a rare early 15th century crucifix will help save their church.

For more than 60 years St Mary’s Church, Thixendale, has been without a permanent heating system and the congregation have had to rely on small gas heaters during icy winters.

But the temporary heaters have begun to damage the fabric of the historic church, commissioned by Sir Tatton Sykes in the 19th century.

Now, the parishioners have launched a fund raising drive in a bid to raise more than £16,000 for a new heating system and other repairs.

And their main hope of unlocking vital funds will come from the auction of the ornate cross, believed to be worth up to £6,000, at Christie’s auction house in London.

Posted: 07|10|06 at 9:43 am. Filed under: UK News.