A CHURCH in Hartlepool has reached the final of a national competition.

St Hilda's is one of 12 churches to make it through to the final of the Ecclesiastical Insurance Group's (EIG) national Search For A Church competition.

The competition was open to all churches in the country, with the aim of encouraging more people to visit churches.

Churches were asked to give ten reasons why people should come and visit them and the surrounding area, including features that makes the church and its services unique, any plans for facilities that will encourage more visitors, and local attractions.

An EIG spokeswoman said: "St Hilda's impressed the competition judges because the church is almost without doubt the oldest building in Hartlepool, having been standing for 900 years.

"It is still a hub of the community. As well as being a fixture for the local tourist trail, it hosts a variety of events, including concerts, drama productions, civic services, music festivals and arts displays.

"Groups from local schools and colleges are welcomed, and individual visitors come from far and near.

"St Hilda's Church has numerous plans for improvements to its facilities for visitors, including the disabled."

The winner will be announced in November, with a £1,000 first prize.

In addition, the church will be featured in next year's EIG calendar.