The church that was severely damaged in last week's storms plans to hold a Sunday service as usual this weekend - if Storm Dennis does not strike.

St Margaret's Church in Blackfordby saw the gable end crumble and fell off during the extreme conditions brought in by Storm Ciara.

Representatives of an insurance company have been brought in to assess the damage,

But they said a structural engineer needs to look at the building which dates back to the 11th century but was rebuilt in 1858.

That might not happen until next week but the church's vicar Fr Michael Fish says the building is accessible - and says tentative plans are in place for a Sunday service this week.

However, that all depends on what the next wave of storms brings as the church is still in a fragile condition with rubble that fell down last weekend.

Ashby Nub News reported on Monday that Fr Fish was 'dumbstruck' by the damage and has spent a frustrating week trying to make sure the building is safe and speaking with the insurance company.

The primary school next door reopened on Wednesday after being closed on Monday - with pupils using a different entrance to avoid the area which is seen as unsafe.

"The insurance company came out and they decided it needs a structural engineer to come out and have a look at it," said Fr Fish.

"It's beyond their knowledge, so we're waiting for an engineer to come out and give a verdict but that could be three or four days. Maybe Friday, but probably next week depending on workload, they are no guarantees.

"We have no idea of costs at the moment.

"The school is open again but the area nearest the church is fenced off.

"But we're not too bad at the church, the insurance people said the way the stonework has fallen away, the internal bit of the wall, which is quite thick, is still in place and should be okay.

"Having said that though, we have Storm Dennis on the way.

"It needs shoring up but no-one really knows who's paying for it yet. We're still in the dark.

"As for this Sunday, we're 90 per cent certain of having a Sunday service, but if that storm hits us on Saturday and takes a few more layers off, we might not. We may have to cancel and move elsewhere."