A CHURCH is set to throw open its doors to the public to show off its heritage next month.

Bury Unitarian Church will be offering tours of the church from 10am-4pm on Friday, September 7, and Saturday, September 8, as part of Heritage Weekend.

The church, situated in the angle between Silver Street and Bank Street, opposite Bury Library, was first erected in 1719, and the current church is the fourth on the site.

During the course of the two days, there will be demonstrations of flower-arranging, and a Traidcraft stall will be on display, highlighting the church's commitment to fair trade.

Among the memorabilia on display is the church bell from when the chapel was first built, a World War One roll of honour, a photographic exhibition, and an illuminated liturgical service book, complied in the 1800s by five sisters, aged 14 and upwards.

A special heritage service will also be held at the church, on Sunday, September 9, from 11.15am.