COMMUNITY groups were given their first tour of what will soon become a key meeting place for a town's residents.

The transformation of the former Wesleyan Methodist Church, in Newgate Street, Bishop Auckland, into a community resource centre is almost complete.

Yesterday, members of Wear Valley and Teesdale Victims Support and representatives of community safety groups were given a guided tour of the building, which will eventually house a wide range of services, including national and local advice and support agencies.

The £1.2m scheme, named the Four Clocks Project after the church's landmark clock tower, will also have a coffee bar, creche, meeting and conference facilities and an Internet caf.

The project is on target to open in May, and already rooms have been allocated to relevant agencies.

Many of the churches original features, including stained glass windows and beams, have been retained and work on the building has so far been given the thumbs up by those who have seen it.

Charles Chatterton, from Wear Valley and Teesdale Victim Support, said he liked what he had seen.

He said: "The building is absolutely beautiful. They have made a fantastic job of it.''

His enthusiasm was echoed by Inspector George Osborne, head of community safety at Wear and Tees police.

He said: "It's an excellent facility which increases the opportunity for all those involved in the community.

"In particular I am keen to see that young people will be able to use the facilities. It is a first in this area.''

Project director Meg Brown said it was an exciting time for the people of the town.

She said: "I just think the building is stunning. The architect has created something that is vibrant and has a real sense of energy. This is about giving the people of Bishop Auckland something to be proud of.'