A NEW group has been launched in hopes of protecting a historic church in Dursley.

The Friends of St James held its first official event on Saturday, July 20.

More than 30 people attended the event at St James the Great which included a tour and a talk led by Austin Meares. 

It comes after a number of incidents last year where a group of yobs repeatedly targeted the historic building. 

At the time, the church had to temporarily change its opening hours.

An organiser said: “The Friends of St James has been established to bring together people who are interested in the care and use of this magnificent building in the heart of Dursley.  

“Austin’s talk included the story of the 14 century font including its use as an animal trough before being reinstated in the church and a challenge to find the butterflies in the wonderful reredos in the Tanner Chapel.

“If you would like to join the group, there are leaflets in the church which is open to the public everyday between 9am and 5pm.” 

Austin Meares explaining the history of the font at the Friends of St James event on Saturday, July 20 (Image: Friends of St James)