VILLAGERS are celebrating after reaching another milestone in their quest to regenerate their church.

The Under The Roof Appeal, in Coundon, near Bishop Auckland, has completed its ambition to restore the dome ceiling at St James' Church.

The project has cost about £7,000 and been made possible with a grant from English Heritage and fundraising.

This is the second phase in the plan to restore the church and make it more accessible for all parishioners and the disabled.

A new roof, costing £120,000, was completed last year marking the end of phase one.

Unfortunately, as work on the roof was being carried out a large piece of the decorative dome ceiling above the altar collapsed, which spurred villagers into more fundraising.

The new ceiling is covered in stars on a deep blue background and is attracting a number of visitors.

To celebrate its restoration, a Festival of Stars and Talents takes place this weekend. It will feature arts, crafts and hobbies, all by villagers.

A cheese and wine evening on Friday will launch the events and a celestial songs of praise on Sunday at 6pm will bring it to a close.

The weekend will also mark the start of the fundraising drive for phase three.

The church needs to raise another £150,000 for a new disabled access, toilets, kitchen and an education porch.