VILLAGERS are hoping that a vintage and classic car rally could give them a cash boost as they strive to raise money for new church facilities.

People in Kirk Merrington, near Spennymoor, are hoping the event at Bowbank Farm between Ferryhill and Kirk Merrington, tomorrow, will be well supported.

Money raised from the rally will go towards providing toilet facilities and an extension for Sunday school classes at the village's St John's Church.

Church warden John Little said: "At the moment we have a relatively small vestry at the rear of the church which is not big enough to hold a small meeting or Sunday school and there are no toilets in the church.

"Our first priority is to put in toilet facilities that would include disabled access. It is going to cost around £15,000.''

A bottle of whisky from the House of Commons signed by Prime Minister Tony Blair is one of 78 items offered in an auction of promises in the afternoon.

The rally starts at 2pm. Admission is £2 for adults, children free.