FIREFIGHTERS who helped save a church from a devastating fire have been helping it get back on its feet.

The fire crew from Maiden Newton were among 20 firefighters who tackled a blaze at St Mary’s Church in the village on March 30 last year after an early morning dog walker raised the alarm.

Their efforts helped limit the damage caused but the church has been closed ever since to allow for repairs and renovations.

The firefighters from Maiden Newton returned to the church over the Easter weekend to help with the restoration work.

Crew manager Dave Thorne, who attended the fire last year and was among those who gave up their time to help restore the church, said: “It was so sad to see the church affected by fire last year – it is an integral part of village life in Maiden Newton.

“We wanted to do all we could to help the church in its final push to re-open. Maiden Newton firefighters have been helping to lay concrete for the new seating areas within the church.”

The Rev Graham Perryman was full of praise for the work of the firefighters in responding to the fire and also for the part they played in helping get it ready to re-open later this year.

He said: “The firefighters were superb on that March early morning a year ago, arriving at the church in less than five minutes.

“We will always be grateful for their swift response, which undoubtedly saved the church roof.

“It is also terrific that they are willing to help us get the church back in order, and make it suitable for the 21st century.

“The church has been changed in almost every century since Norman times and we look forward to welcoming the wonderful people of Maiden Newton back into this historic place.”