A unique feature in a Suffolk church is at the centre of a fundraising event this weekend.

The fundraising event has been organised in aid of a restoration appeal at St Andrew's Church in Westhall, near Halesworth.

Money raised will be used to restore its painted rood screen, which dates to the 1500s and is the only one in England to depict the Transfiguration of Christ.

The sale and auction event on Sunday, July 9 features the 'Westhall Quilt' and art works up for grabs at Belle Grove Farmhouse, also known as Dragon House, from 6pm.

Organisers of the event say St Andrew’s Church, part of which dates from Norman times, has been described as 'Suffolk’s best kept secret' and is regarded as an essential destination for those interested in medieval churches.

Beccles & Bungay Journal: The rood screen in St Andrews Church, pictured in 2003The rood screen in St Andrews Church, pictured in 2003 (Image: Newsquest)

Apart from its unusual layout, Westhall church boasts the unique painted rood screen, a stunning Seven Sacrament gesso font and medieval wall paintings including a ‘horned’ Moses.

Its double-sided screen is believed to date from the early 1500s.

One side depicts the painted images of female saints and on the other side are eight male figures including a triptych depiction of Moses, Jesus and Elijah representing the Transfiguration of Christ.

This is the only surviving medieval screen representation of the Transfiguration in England.

Having survived the centuries, the screen is now in a parlous state through the depredations of woodworm, deathwatch beetle and damp.

Beccles & Bungay Journal: The Westhall Quilt Picture: Jo JordanThe Westhall Quilt Picture: Jo Jordan (Image: Jo Jordan)

Sunday's event will see the 'Westhall Quilt' being auctioned off.

It is a collaborative effort that is nearly all been sown by hand. Other pieces of art by various local artists will also be auctioned off and the night will also feature music from William Bass and William Ferguson and 'fizz and nibbles'.

Tickets costing £10 must be booked by July 5. They can be booked by emailing liz@.dmfs.co.uk or by calling 01986 781352. They can also be purchased directly at the Racecourse pub in Westhall.