FUNDRAISERS are preparing for a final push as they close in on the £84,000 target needed to repair a church roof.

The organisers of Guisborough Methodist Church's Raising the Roof appeal are holding an auction of promises to help them achieve their goal.

Built in 1907, the church is in desperate need of a replacement roof and fundraisers have spent less than a year trying to secure funding.

Organisers have praised the dedication of church members and the support of the local business community.

One of those, Sheila Crossman, said: "We have offers of two nights on a narrow boat, day trips, meals out, meals in, breakfasts, lunches, dinners, take-aways and free passes to a number of desirable locations."

"There are also offers of tuition in different skills, including organ, guitar and ukulele playing, fly fishing, computer know-how, family tree researching and sign language.

"There are services too, such as a handyman or a gardener for the day, carpet cleaning, ironing, babysitting, physiotherapy, manicures and massages. You can have jewellery made to order, cakes, biscuits, scones and bread baked, or buy plants, vegetables, jam and eggs, " said Mrs Crossman.

"We have fabulous paintings, photographs, fungi or floral art, and cross stitch pictures and knitting from our own church family. There are curtains, cushions and glassware. We even have exercise equipment or a round of golf for when you have worked your way through all the meals and cakes on offer."

The event takes place next Saturday, from 6pm in the church and admission is £1.

Catalogues of the promises, which cost £2 and give you admission to the evening, are also available from Guisborough Methodist Church, Greensleeves Music Shop, or the Guisborough Bookshop.

The following weekend, the group is holding a coffee morning with a difference when they offer people the chance to have their picture taken.

Members of Guisborough Photo Club will be on hand to take individual portrait photos or family groups.

The cost of the photo session is £10, which includes an A4 sized print out, and additional prints can also be bought.

People can call into the church between 9.30am and 2pm on Saturday, June 18.

For further information about either event, call the church office on 01287-610349 between 10am and noon, Monday to Friday.