A CHURCH fundraising drive to pay for repairs is already bearing fruit.

Last month, members of Consett Methodist Church in Station Road, launched the appeal for £50,000 needed to provide a new roof, replace the boiler and carry out other minor repairs.

More than £3,000 has already come in and members are busy organising a series of events.

As well as providing a place of worship for the Methodist congregation, the church has been the centre of a number of community activities over the years.

Over the past 75 years, the church has been home to one of the area's oldest branches of the Boys' Brigade and thousands of young men have come through the doors to take part in activities.

As well as weddings, funerals and christenings, the church has been a venue for blood donor sessions, community groups and stage presentations.

Appeal organisers hope some of those who have made use of the building over the years will use the opportunity to show their appreciation of the church and help it secure its future.

For further details or to make a donation, please ring Owen Temple on (01207) 505564.