THE Bishop of Durham held a service on Sunday as a piece of history returned to a church.

The stained glass window at St Thomas’ Church, in Stanhope, County Durham, was removed for £30,000 renovation work last year amid fears it would fall out.

Some parts of the window date back to the 14th Century.

Church warden John Anstee said: “It is the second oldest glass in the county, next to Durham Cathedral.

“Everybody has had a moment with it. You can now see detail that you couldn’t before.

“There are 11 Tudor roses that we didn’t know were in there.

“Since it has been back, especially when the sun is setting in the west, it is very special.

“We are very proud of it.”

The Right Reverend Tom Wright held a rededication service at the church on Sunday.

A special memorial book to commend those who contributed to the fundraising appeal for the church has also been launched.