RESTORATION work at three landmark churches is under way after the congregations helped to raise thousands of pounds.

Two-and-a-half years ago, Trinity Methodist Church, in Norton, was destroyed by fire after an electrical fault in the organ.

The minister, the Reverend Stewart Young, wrote to more than 100 charities asking for help towards the £350,000 needed to restore the 146-year-old chapel.

His efforts raised £17,500, which, with the sale of a property, £200,000 of insurance and £30,000 raised by the congregation, has paid for a full restoration.

At St Joseph's Catholic Church, in Potter Hill, Pickering, Father Bill East is confident that funds for the £125,000 scheme to re-roof the building are well on the way to reaching their target.

He said: "We are delighted with the way the restoration of the roof has gone, and people have been very supportive.

"But like all churches, we do welcome any contributions to help maintain our historic churches."

Work is also under way at All Saints, in Terrington, on a £30,000 scheme to restore the church tower.