A campaign to restore a village landmark has been officially launched.

The team behind the restoration of Finchingfield’s Guildhall hosted a reception for more than 100 guests at Spains Hall, the home of High Sheriff of Essex Lady Rosemary Ruggles-Brise and her husband Sir Timothy.

It was to celebrate raising £1.6m, which allows work to start this autumn, and to launch the campaign to raise the remaining £150,000 needed to complete work.