Launde Abbey has launched a massive renovation project in order to comply with health and safety laws but time is running out to raise the cash.

This week the Archbishop of Canterbury has called for help to save the retreat which provides support to communities on the border of Rutland and Leicestershire.

Launde Abbey’s warden, the Reverend Tim Blewitt, has been overwhelmed by the level of support so far which includes pledges of children’s pocket money and a £10,000 cheque from one guest.

He said: “We mean a huge amount to the community. We are not just a local institution but a regional and national one.

“When you drive here through the Leicestershire and Rutland countryside, the stress seems to just roll away.”

The 16th century house needs to be converted to offer disabled access as well as a long list of other repairs. A new staircase will cost £94,000, guttering £32,000, roof lead work £41,000, a study £15,000 and decorating costs £25,000. Anyone who donates any of these amounts in full will have their names engraved within the abbey.

Launde Abbey is the 16th century retreat house for the Dioceses of Leicester and Peterborough which offers a quiet place for people to relax and reflect on their lives.

In a statement the Archbishop of Canterbury Rowan Williams appealed for donations to restore the 45-bedroom building. He said: “Unfortunately, retreat houses are disappearing at an alarming rate. Launde Abbey is one of the finest we have, set in the glorious countryside, and must be preserved.”

It attracts 20,000 visitors each year.

To join the Save Launde Abbey campaign visit www.savelaundeabbey.co.uk