A HISTORIC church at the heart of the town is offering a unique chance for residents in the borough to 'ring in' a special occasion.

Bellringers at St Cuthbert's Church, off the Market Square, in Darlington, can be sponsored to ring a quarter peal to mark a significant occasion or achievement.

Quarter peals are traditionally rung for a range of reasons, including birthdays, special events, birthdays, weddings, or in remembrance of someone.

A full peal can take around three hours to ring, while a quarter peal lasts for 45 minutes and is performed by eight bellringers.

In recent weeks, a handrail has been fitted in St Cuthbert's tower spiral staircase as part of its ongoing refurbishment.

The Darlington bellringers themselves are paying for half of the costs needed to install the rail and the dedicated group are now fundraising to cover the costs by offering the special quarter peals for around £50 each.

For more information on sponsoring the St Cuthbert's bellringers to ring a quarter peal, contact Aileen Little by calling 01325-356691.