A historic church in one of Dorset’s most idyllic villages could be set for a £120,000 makeover.

Proposals for a toilet and kitchen at St James Church in Milton Abbas have expanded to include a community room, a giant oak screen and a new glazed entrance between the tower and the nave.

Architect Tom Roberts, who lives in the village, said residents had seized the opportunity to make a lasting difference to the parish church.

“Once the basics were overcome, there was a sense that this was a once in a lifetime opportunity to make a contribution to the church that would carry it forward,” he said.

“There is an increasing number of people using the church, not only for spiritual purposes, but for concerts and meetings.”

The 18th century church was built when the nearby village of Middleton was “moved” in 1780 by landowner Joseph Damer to make room for his country seat – now Milton Abbey School.

Residents hope to celebrate the refurbishment of their church with a filmed performance of a play to commemorate Damer’s destruction of Middleton and creation of Milton Abbas, with Heritage Lottery funding.

A separate space will be created inside the church with a full-height oak screen and glazed panels set in three stone arches, removing the need to heat the entire church.

Raising the sum required could become a transatlantic effort. Worshipers at the village’s sister church in Milton, Massachusetts, have pledged to support parishioners in North Dorset.

Mr Roberts said a number of regional and national funding institutions had been approached, including the Heritage Lottery fund.

Fundraisers hope to hear by July whether their bid has been successful, after which work could begin in autumn in the hope of completion by Christmas.

Villagers are aiming to raise £10,000 with a series of events, including an auction of promises.