£3m bid to restore town landmark

Boston Stump is said be the tallest parish church in England

An appeal to raise £3m is being launched to carry out restoration and improvement works to Boston Stump.

The appeal has attracted royal backing with HRH The Princess Royal agreeing to be patron.

If all goes to plan the work should be completed in time for the Stump's 700th anniversary in 2009.

Restoration works need to be carried out on the church's 272-ft (83m) high tower. Visitor facilities should be improved with a new shop and toilets.

The campaign will be officially unveiled at a special event in the Stump next month.