THE oldest church in Darlington needs £90,000 of urgent repairs for rewiring and decoration.

St Andrew's church was founded in about 1125 on the site of an older Saxon Church that was probably destroyed just 50 years earlier by the Normans.

An inspection by building experts two years ago concluded that the wiring in the church was potentially dangerous and was in need of repair by 2003.

It is hoped that the rewiring can be undertaken as soon as possible and redecoration of the church can be carried out at the same time.

Some changes are also planned to the church's West Tower including reopening the Norman Door and making the whole building more accessible to wheelchair users.

Rector the Reverend David Bryan, who has been in Darlington a year, said: "The church is a cultural treasure trove. Wherever you look there is something that has a story to tell.

"Many significant events in the past 900 years have left their mark, whether it be the Reformation, the English Civil War, or the rising of Bonnie Prince Charlie.

"Whenever I offer guided tours to children and other groups, I find myself spoilt for choice. The Church is mainly furnished with unique oak pews from the 17th Century. John Cosin put these in the Church when he was Rector of Branspeth.

"The Branspeth Church, near Durham, had similar furnishings to St Andrew's, but these were lost following a fire that many believe arose from a fault in the electrical system. This adds an urgency to our project."

So far, supporters of the church have raised £25,000 towards the total and it is hoped work can be carried out from January to March next year, when demand for the church for weddings is at a minimum.

Dr Bryan said: "We are seeking grants, especially from the Heritage Lottery Fund, and benefactions. So far, the going is tough and there is a long way to go."

Dr Bryan became chaplain of the Richmond Town Pipes and Drums in June and the band is holding a concert to raise funds for the church.

The concert will be held in The Rectory Gardens, in Haughton-le-Skerne, on Saturday, next week, from 5.00pm. Admission is £2.50, with concessions priced at £1.25. Tickets can be bought from the church office from 9am until noon, weekdays.