THE generosity of local people has resulted in a landmark Darlington church being able to repay a loan of £15,000.

St John's Church, in Neasham Road, was forced to apply for a loan after structural problems were discovered in the tower.

Repair work was carried out in 1998, but despite receiving various grants, the church was still left to repay a loan of £15,000 from the Durham Diocese.

However, thanks to the fundraising efforts of people connected with the church, and other residents, the loan has now been paid off.

Money was raised as a result of a number of events and donations, including life savings of £1,000 given by one woman.

The Reverend Judith Howes, vicar of the 153-year-old former railwaymen's church, said she was delighted.

"We thought it would take ten years to pay back, but we have managed it in just two," she said.

"And we would like to thank the very generous people of Darlington who helped to raise the money."

The St John's Appeal Fund Account is being left open as a building fund for any future emergencies or work that needs to be done.

But Ms Howes says she now hopes that with the building work complete, any further money raised will go to helping people.

The distinctive flat-topped church is know as the railwaymen's church because it was built at the height of the steam age and served the railway workers who settled in the area.