Josh Price

A vicar in Staveley is undertaking a 24‑hour walking challenge to raise funds for restoring the closed Grade II‑listed St James’ Church, shut in 2025 due to structural concerns. Community members are supporting the effort through events and ongoing worship in alternative venues. Preliminary restoration planning is underway, and the church council awaits a decision on progressing a grant application through Historic England’s Places of Worship Renewal Fund. Organisers hope sufficient funding will allow the historic building to reopen as a centre of local community life.