A BIRCLE Church has been extremely fortunate in securing financial assistance from Viridor Credits to help towards funding much needed repairs to the roof of the building.

St John the Baptist church stands high above the town and from the churchyard there are panoramic views over the surrounding towns of Bury, Heywood, Rochdale and the Pennines. However, because of its location the church is exposed to the worst of the weather and over the years this has taken its toll on the building.

Carol Collins, church warden said: “We are extremely grateful to Viridor Credits in helping us to keep our church building in good repair – the church was built over 170 years ago and is Grade II listed. We are so pleased that Viridor Credits appreciated the importance of the building to the community and is helping us to preserve the beauty, calm and peace which the church offers for years to come.”

Lesley Gough, church warden, added that although work is to begin on the repair this week all church services and activities will continue as planned. In recent years the church has become a thriving community hub and is used much more than for Sunday morning services. Monday mornings are Welcome Space, Stay and Play for carers and tots and coffee morning for anyone who cares to call – there is no cost whatsoever and all are welcome to pop in for refreshments and a chat. Monday afternoon the Art and Craft group meet and sessions are to continue beginning of September.

The church will be open to all on September 20 and 21 during the Heritage Open Days weekend and again this is a “free” event. On Thursday evening October 3 the very popular Valley Aloud Community choir will be performing to help the church raise much needed funds.

To follow the progress of the repair and for information on activities have a look at facebook.com/birclechurch.