TOWN centre residents are appealing for the restoration of the weathervane and golden globe to the flagpole of Kendal Parish Church.

The flagpole was replaced earlier this year after a report that it was unsafe and had a crack in the wood.

The church was turned down for funding to replace it with another wooden pole and erected one made of fibreglass, which will not support the weight of the globe or weathervane.

Residents who live close to the church are appealing for the ‘beautiful’ items to be restored.

Duncan Macbeth said: “It has changed the character of the building completely.

“When the church is lit up in the evenings, the floodlights enhanced the previous globe and vane – they could be viewed from all angles in the town and it was a very comforting and beautiful sight.”

Another local resident John Campbell said: “The globe was a historical part of Kendal – it was much admired both by people in Kirkland and by visitors to the town.

“Losing it has been to the detriment of the appearance of this ancient building.”

The Rev Rob Saner-Haigh, priest in charge, said: “We would gladly look at it again if people feel strongly about it and if we could raise the funds, but this would probably be in the region of £7,000 to £8,000.

“With our scant resources we feel that our priority should be people.”