A CHURCH was filled with the sound of music as it launched a fundraising drive for a new parish hall.

An eight-hour piano marathon was held in St Mary' Magadelne Church, Belmont, Durham, featuring players ranging from beginners to concert performers.

More than 20 people took part in the sponsored event, including well-known local pianists Marion Senior and George Hetherington.

The vicar, the Reverend Robert Innes, played some modern French organ music.

The event was followed by a concert and also coincided with the church's summer fair at the Belmont Grange Nursing Home.

Rev Innes said the events were successful and the pianothon was expected to raise about £800, which will be shared between the hall appeal and St Cuthbert's Hospice.

He said: "There was a wide range of music played during the pianothon, ranging from classical to songs from the shows and Gershwin.

"We had a lovely fair, there was a good turnout and we raised about £1,000. There was a collection at the concert that raised about £250.''

The much-needed hall, which will be a base for church and community activities, will cost more than £500,000.

About £140,000 has been raised and now members of the congregation are being invited to contribute.

Rev Innes said: "We are sending out brochures to all our church members explaining the project and inviting them to pledge, or give what they can afford, to the cause."

The church will submit a second application for National Lottery funding at the end of next month.

Its first bid was rejected, but hopes are high that the new submission will be successful.