PARISHIONERS are being urged to help raise the final £100,000 towards one of the first new churches in Darlington for decades.

All Saints and Salutation Church, in Blackwell, is to replace its wooden home that has served the parish since 1937.

Church officials launched a £500,000 appeal last October.

More than £400,000 has been raised through pledges and grants. It is hoped the remainder can be found over the next three months.

Plans for the new brick-built church include flexible seating for 250 to 300 people.

Bosses said it would be large enough to accommodate big congregations at Christmas, weddings and funerals, but small enough to retain the current building's welcoming atmosphere.

The existing stained glass windows will be incorporated into the new design, as will the etched glass doors, altar, pulpit and font.

It is also hoped that it will be eco-friendly, featuring alternative heating systems, which could use solar power and ground energy.

The idea of a new church on the site was first mooted in the Thirties, to serve the growing West End population. The Second World War put paid to the project but officials believe the time is right to resurrect the venture.

It will serve a parish of 7,500 people. The aim is to start building next year.

The Reverend John Dobson, vicar at the church, said: "It is very difficult to get grants for Christian worship. Funds tend to be available for ancient buildings with architectural merit, but there are very few sources for new churches.

"This is a big thing for the town and sends out a message about faith and that the gospel is very relevant. It is very easy for our society to think it knows better."

Anyone who can help the church appeal is asked to contact Mr Dobson on 01325-354503 or 01325-469891.