A HUGE banner has been erected at a church in Darlington to welcome people.

The 22ft by 14ft silk embroidered collage, which has been hung in St Teresa's Church, in Harris Street, depicts the risen Christ.

The banner has taken two years to create and cost £2,600, which was raised by the church.

It was designed and created by Sister Anthony Wilson, artistic director of Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral, and a group of ten volunteers.

She and seven of the volunteers came to Darlington to see their work hung in St Teresa's Church and attend a dedication service last night.

She said: "I was approached nearly two years ago by Father Kelly to see if I would design a hanging for the Sanctuary of St Teresa's.

"It has a big sanctuary for the size of the church, so it had to be something big to hang there. In fact, it is the same measurements of some of the banners in our own cathedral.

"We decided it would be good to have a resurrected Christ, with outstretched arms welcoming people to the church.

" The colours are very pure. They are glowing, to symbolise the glory."

Father John Kelly, priest at St Teresa's said: "I'm thrilled with the banner and I hope it will greatly enrich the closeness to God of the people, and help people to feel welcome, and more will be attracted to join us at the church."