IT WASN’T exactly divine intervention but church leaders knew they had to go higher when part of their building was damaged.

St Edmund’s Church at Lanehouse in Weymouth has had to do with an incomplete cross on top of the building for several months after an arm broke off during storms last winter.

But thanks to Weymouth firefighters and a hydraulic aerial ladder the cross is now fixed.

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The cross, which is metal with wood cladding, has sat on top of the church since it was constructed 61 years ago, the first church to be built in the Salisbury Diocese after the Second World War.

The severe weather took its toll on the cross earlier this year when an arm broke off in three pieces.

Churchwarden Mike Prince said the parish could not afford to pay a company to put up scaffolding and make repairs.

After much thought it was decided to approach Dorset Fire and Rescue Service and ask for help.

Weymouth firefighters were happy to oblige and carried out the job for free.

As well as gluing the parts of the broken cross arm back on, the crew secured it with some cable ties, and also oiled the hinges on the bell while they were up there.

Mr Prince said: “We knew we had to get the professionals in.

“The only way to do the job was either using scaffold, and we couldn’t afford to pay out £1,000 as we’re working on a shoestring, or using a high lift.

“We had the bright idea of asking the fire brigade to see if they could do it as a training exercise, plus it’s good PR for them.

“After a few emails were exchanged they said yes.

“We’re absolutely delighted with the job they did.

“The cross is secure and I don’t think there’s anything to worry about for a few years yet.”

Curate, the Rev Roger Butcher, said the parish was ‘very grateful’ to the fire service.

He added: “I would have done it myself but I’ve not been blessed with the power of levitation from the Holy Spirit just yet!”