CENTURIES of history literally went out of the window yesterday when a North-East church took to emergency action to save its greatest treasure.

Conservation experts spent the day painstakingly removing the fragile stained glass west window from the 12th Century church of St Thomas the Apostle, in Stanhope, County Durham, because of fears it could soon fall out.

The church has launched an appeal for £30,000 to restore the window, which contains rare pieces of glass dating back to the 14th Century.

It was last touched in 1867, when Newcastle glazier William Wailes mixed panels from the church’s 16th Century ‘Prophets’ east window with contemporary glass.

Present day church leaders realised the window was at risk after an inspection from specialist architect John Niven.

When conservator Chris Chesney, of Iona Art Glass, in Warkworth, advised them to act quickly they obtained a temporary interlocutory order from the Chancellor of the Diocese of Durham giving permission for yesterday’s removal.

Iona Art and Classic Masonry will restore the window and surrounding masonry while a Parochial Church Council working party raises the necessary cash.

Around £13,000 has already come in from bequests, church funds and donations and supporters are being asked to contribute in memory of family members and friends.

Churchwarden John Anstee said: "The window is a real treasure in a church that contains many important art works.

"The glass is the second oldest in the county, outside Durham Cathedral.

"The whole window is in a parlous condition and in imminent risk of falling out. We could not wait any longer."

The Rev Susan Kent looked on as Mr Chesney worked yesterday. She said: "Watching the window coming out is list watching a piece of history happen.

"We really want to do this properly so it is right for the next generation."

Anyone who would like to contribute to the window appeal should contact Mr Anstee on 01388-528610, email: janstee@aol.com.