The former head of the British Army is embarking on a new campaign by helping to preserve Great Yarmouth's St Nicholas Church. General Sir Richard Dannatt will be giving a talk in the town on May 14 about his 40-year experience of serving Queen and Country in aid of St Nicholas Church Preservation Trust.

The former head of the British Army is embarking on a new campaign by helping to preserve Great Yarmouth's St Nicholas Church.

General Sir Richard Dannatt will be giving a talk in the town on May 14 about his 40-year experience of serving Queen and Country in aid of St Nicholas Church Preservation Trust.

Money raised will go towards restoring the organ and tower pinnacles at the largest parish church in England.

Described as a coup for the trust, Gen Dannatt, who lives in Norfolk, will give an audience of 220 people an insight into life and demands of serving in the British Army.

Gen Dannatt was commissioned into the Green Howards in 1971 and served seven tours with the 1st battalion in Northern Ireland and also with the UN in Cyprus. He then rose through the ranks to take command of 4th Armoured Brigade, 3 UK Division, the Allied Rapid Reaction Corps and became head of the army in 2006 until last year. He also served in Bosnia and Kosovo.

Gen Dannatt said: “I am delighted to be helping the country's largest parish church to raise funds for its restoration.”

Dr Paul Davies, chairman of the Trust said: “It is fantastic that Gen Dannatt is giving his time for free to support the organ and tower pinnacle at St Nicholas. We appreciate his time and support.”

The talk is in the Royal Assembly Rooms in Albert Square from 7pm. Tickets are priced at �10. They need to be booked in advance by calling Dr Davies on 01493 843647 or emailing paulpearce@yarmouth8143.freeserve.co.uk or by visiting www.sncpt.co.uk

The Trust has also organised a quiz in the Assembly Rooms on March 26 with teams of up to six people. It costs �5 per head.