AN elderly couple who quietly supported a village church for decades have made it one of the major benefactors of their will.

Alf and Maggie Vickers left half the proceeds from the sale of their bungalow to St James’ Church in Coundon, near Bishop Auckland.

Father Gary Nicholson said news of the legacy had come as a “delightful shock,” with the property currently on the market for offers in excess of £90,000.

“We have received a few legacies this year for which we are grateful,” he said.

“When we heard we were to benefit from the sale of their beautiful bungalow, it was very humbling. It was such a kind thing to do and we are very grateful.

“The proceeds from the sale will help us continue to be a presence in the village and help with our work.”

Mrs Vickers, a retired auxiliary nurse, died two years ago aged 100. Her husband, a former miner, died last August aged 97.

The couple were unable to attend services at the church in latter years but always supported it by buying raffle tickets and the parish magazine.

Joan Carey and Yvonne Little both lived near to the couple in Westerton View, Coundon, for more than 30 years, and were not surprised to hear about the legacy.

“They didn’t tell us about it but they were very generous people,” said Ms Little.

“They kept themselves to themselves but we had a good laugh over the years. We used to take Maggie to the Metro Centre but we could never say if we liked anything because she would insist on buying it for us. That’s the kind of person she was. She would always come away with a present for Alf too.

“She was a very good cook and baker. When we first moved here she was one of the first to come over with an apple pie.”

Ms Carey added: “Alf was the same. He loved his garden and had two greenhouses to grow tomatoes in. He really helped us with our garden when we moved here.”

Church member Mary Goundry said: “We are so grateful to Mr and Mrs Vickers. We are very active in the community and this money will make a big difference. It will also help with the day-to-day costs of running and maintaining this beautiful building.”

The two-bedroom home is on the market with Venture Properties.