MAYDAY celebrations have taken place at the launch event of a deconsecrated former church that has been converted in community art space.

Durham couple Paul and Janiece Spence have spent the last two years renovating the former St Peter's Church, in Front Street, Sacriston.

The church was first used for services in the 1860s, but was deconsecrated in 2004 and work began in 2011.

Mr Spence, 57, a civil engineer and environmental consultant, and his wife have working to turn the building into a cafe, theatre and art gallery.

Known as The Old Church, it is to be run as not-for-profit organisation and is now open for community use.

Mr Spence said: “It is a space for any kind of performance and it is also available for hire to cub scout groups and societies.

“I am very happy with it. There is still work to do but it is useable.

“It has been a real labour of love, but I have enjoyed doing it.”

As well as maypole dancing there were performances from the Durham Rams morris men.