A CHURCH has embarked on the biggest restoration programme in its history to mark a special anniversary.

St James the Great parish church, Albert Hill, Darlington, celebrates the 125th year of its dedication in August.

A rolling programme of improvements, which this year will top £200,000, is already in place to mark the anniversary.

Work to be carried out includes the renovation of two stained glass windows, a new sound system and induction loop for the hard of hearing and restoration of the high altar and church organ.

The church was built in 1876 and consecrated that year by the then Bishop of Durham, Dr Baring.

Despite its industrial surroundings, it maintains a congregation of more than 100 people.

Father Ian Grieves, who has been parish priest for 12 years, said: "The church is quite unique and there is no other in the town like it.

"But it takes some maintaining especially as restoration work required has not been done in the past.

"What we want to do is to restore it to its former glory. We have already spent something in the region of £150,000 on the fabric of the building and will spend about £50,000 this year on it.

"That money comes solely from donations, gifts from parishioners and the grants we receive from the diocese."

A series of fundraising events are now being planned to help pay for the further improvements.

These will include a jubilee dinner and a Victorian-style evening in the church hall, while a number of special masses will take place.

An exhibition of St James' memorabilia is also planned and an updated church booklet is being published to mark its August 31 anniversary.