ONE of Stockton's most popular choirs is raising the roof in aid of parish church refurbishments.

The Stockton Vocal Union is giving a concert next weekend to help to mend the roof of the town's parish church.

English Heritage has awarded the church a £120,000 grant towards the work on the Grade I listed building, which was built in 1712.

Doreen Hare, a member of the parochial church council, said: "We have enjoyed a very long-standing and happy relationship with the choir.

"They kindly offered to give this concert of light-hearted music and fun to support this very worthy cause.

"The upkeep of a Grade I listed building takes a huge amount of money, time and effort and the church wishes to express its grateful thanks to the local authority, charities, institution and members of the public in assisting with this mammoth task.

"Without the public there would be no building, but without the building Stockton would lose a very important community outreach opportunity."

When the church roof is completed, brick and stonework repairs will be carried out to the main church and tower, as well as some internal decoration.

Tickets for the concert, taking place at 7.30pm at the church on Saturday, are £5 at the door