A Harrogate town centre church, which was almost demolished to extend a chain store two decades ago, has looked at its financial crises of the past in a bid to help it meet present monetary needs.

St Peter's fundraising chairman Derek Starling wrote six playlets for the congregation at Sunday services, portraying the church's financial plights during its 125 years.

Highlighted was the fact that when it was built the congregation was unable to pay and complete the tower.

The Reverend Tony Shepherd said: "In the next play we were told how they just managed to raise money to complete the tower, but did not have enough money to put the bells in it."

Today, the church boasts a peal of bells.

"The message of our giving campaign is a simple and stark one. If we value St Peter's, then we have to give openly and generously to keep it going," said Mr Shepherd.

St Peter's came under threat of demolition when its former next door neighbour, Marks and Spencer, considered buying the building to extend its store on the site.

The idea faltered amid opposition and later the company moved to its present site nearby in Cambridge Street.