ONE of Hampshire's oldest churches is in need of urgent repair if further flooding is to be averted over the winter.

St Mary's Church, in the grounds of Portchester Castle, requires new drains and guttering at a cost of £15,604.

Now the vicar of Portchester, the Reverend Michael Cooper, has set himself a mission to find the money so work can begin next year on repairing the church, built in 1133.

He has been helped on his way by a cash boost from Fareham council which has agreed to hand over £1,560 to the project.

The Rev Cooper has applied to Hampshire County Council for the same amount but that still leaves a £12,484 shortfall.

"We are grateful to the council for the grant," he said.

"It's a great help. The rest of the money will have to be found from the church's annual budget and any donations from the congregation."

It is hoped the drainage works will protect the historic fabric of the Grade I listed church from water damage.

Last year the church was flooded, leaving floorboards and carpets soaked and damaged.

The problem arose after blocked drains left rainwater with no escape.