A CHURCH'S plans to build a community hall have moved a step forward thanks to its Guide and Scout groups.

They have handed over £96,000 towards the £500,000 project at St Mary Magdalene Church in Belmont, Durham.

The money was raised to build them a new headquarters after their base was sold for development 15 years ago.

They could not find any land but the church is now planning to build the centre in the churchyard.

It will be a base for church activities, community groups in Belmont and Carrville, and will be the permanent home for the Scouts and Guides.

The Reverend Robert Innes, the vicar, said: "We are desperately short of facilities in Carrville and Belmont.

"There is the Belmont Community Centre but it is on the other side of the motorway and is actually in Gilesgate Moor and those who live on this side of the motorway don't feel much ownership. This is a good start. We are planning to submit an application for National Lottery funding later in the year.''

Fifteen gravestones in the churchyard, which has not had a burial for 50 years, will have to be moved.