Plaistow Community Memorial Church needs cash to finish vital repairs to its roof.

The building, in Barking Road, has already received two grants from the Friends of Essex Churches Trust for work on each of its two towers to stop rain coming in.

Development manager Philippa King said they will now apply for a third grant to complete the project.

She helped launch the trust’s annual Ride & Stride charity fund raiser, with Rev David Hawkins, the Bishop of Barking

People from east London will generate money by walking or cycling from church to church.

Mrs King said: “We have also enjoyed taking part in the Ride & Stride as part of our local fundraising efforts.

“For two years we have had a team of sponsored cyclists spending a day cycling round Essex churches. Last year, for the first time we joined an ecumenical group of ‘striders’ walking around churches in Newham.”

All money goes into the upkeep of churches in east London and Essex.

Mr Hawkins said: “East London has some of the most beautiful churches and I am very proud that people from all denominations across our communities are getting involved with the Ride & Stride.”

For information on how to take part, visit www.foect.org.uk