A CHURCH is celebrating a turn-around in fortunes following its success in bringing the community together to support it.

When the Rev Bruce Harrison took over as rector of St Margaret's, in Brotton, east Cleveland, 18 months ago, it had a serious vandalism problem.

New floodlights were installed, only to be targeted by local youths, which resulted in the church spending £2,000 on security. Windows were smashed and signs, put up to deter dog fouling, were destroyed leading to repairs costing more than £4,000.

Then, last year, Mr Harrison started a project to raise £6,500 for the church's first stained glass window. The community got behind it, and last week the Millennium window was officially unveiled by the Bishop of Whitby, the Rt Rev Robert Ladd.

Earlier this year, Mr Harrison started a project to restore the church hall, in the former St Margaret's school building, on Saltburn Road. He sought the help of youngsters on probation to redecorate it. He said: "We have built up a very good relationship with them, and they are hoping to come back to do more work with us. I believe the community is beginning to work together to regain its community spirit."

To build on the success, Mr Harrison plans to open the centre to even more groups. "It's already used by the Brownies, slimming clubs, keep fit people, mother and toddler groups, and others," he said.

"Now Redcar and Cleveland council is starting computer programmes, and we are starting a luncheon group on July 6. We are also hoping to establish summer activities for youngsters and we plan to start a youth club."

He said the revamped hall is a symbol of the church's progress over recent months.