A CAMPAIGN to restore a forgotten chapel to its former glory has been gathering momentum thanks to some help from the community.

Sue Hull, a local representative for the Historic Chapels Trust (HCT) that acquired Grittleton Strict Baptist Chapel in 2011, is behind the project.

While Sue was digging into her family history she discovered her three, four and five time great-grandparents were buried in the chapel’s grounds.

When she went to visit the graves she couldn’t reach them due to overgrown trees and bushes, so felt inspired to restore the chapel and its grounds.

“From an emotional point of view I couldn’t leave it in that state,” she said.

“It’s become a passion of mine because I found my family there. I want it used.”

After initially struggling to get volunteers to help, Sue has recently received support from a number of local groups.

Among them are Grittleton House School students that have helped as part of their Duke of Edinburgh Awards.

“We are working on a wing and a prayer and trying to raise funds,” said Sue.

“I have been helped by many volunteers starting in August, without whom the initiative would have floundered; big thanks to them all.

“We have also had volunteers doing some cleaning inside.”

A programme of minor repairs has now been carried out on the chapel and the entrance gates and tottering gate piers have been rebuilt, making it easier to access.

Local volunteers have also helped clear the burial ground over the summer months of 2015, transforming the appearance of the chapel grounds and making it welcoming to visitors.

Invasive ivy has been cleared and, with the help of neighbours, overhanging trees have been cut back.

To celebrate the renovation of the chapel, Sue has organised a charity service on Sunday, December 20, at 2.30pm at the chapel.

“The carol service will be the first community service there for more than thirty years and will be a huge occasion for us,” she said.

“I wanted a proper service as it used to be a chapel.

“There will be a small choir with members of the Malmesbury Singers in Victorian costume; we’re inviting anyone to come along in Victorian costume too.

“We’d like to have weddings and concerts there in the future.

“It’s all not for profit, so if people donate it goes to the upkeep of the building.”

If anyone would like to attend the charity service, volunteer to help with the redevelopment of the chapel, or donate to it, they can ring Sue on 01666 822730.