PRIMARY school youngsters are learning all about churches with the help of a new model.

Retired steelworker John Jones, from Escomb, near Bishop Auckland, turned his hand to making toys for his grandchildren when he finished work.

His creations were admired so much by local people that he was approached by governors at the village primary school to make a model of a church to assist with lessons.

After spending more than 150 hours over the winter months hard at work, Mr Jones has re-created the village's Saxon Church, plus 28 pieces of furniture, including an altar and pews.

Mr Jones, 64, said the project had been a labour of love and he had enjoyed every minute of it.

Yesterday, youngsters from the school were delighted as they were presented with the model.

Mr Jones said: "I thought it was a good idea and it has been a labour of love.

"The school is a grand home for it. The model has many of the church's features and, hopefully, the children will identify them when they visit the church."

Headteacher Keith Taylor said the model would be a useful tool when teaching the children about weddings and christenings and other church events.

He said: "Mr Jones has done a superb job. It is absolutely wonderful and it will bring the church to life for the children.''