WORSHIPPERS at Tottington Methodist Church are on the move while their prayers are answered with a huge refurbishment.

The last service at the church in its current state took place on Sunday (Aug 15), followed by a meal for up to 60 churchgoers at Carmelo's restaurant.

Proposals for a new building on the site of the former day school fell through when planning permission was refused.

Instead, the congregation took part in fundraising efforts for a more expensive conversion of the 99-year-old church building, costing nearly £1million.

The entire cellar will need to be damp-proofed, roof vents sealed, and walls stripped to eradicate dry rot.

A modernisation programme includes a disabled access lift, a new function room where the current balcony sits, an enlarged entrance area and refreshments room and a separate worship area.

The service was conducted by lay pastor Mrs Jill Taylor and Rev Otto Ntshanyana.

Mrs Taylor said: "Members of the congregation thought it was wonderful and really enjoyed the time sitting and remembering the church as it was.

"Although a church is about people and not buildings, a lot of lives have revolved around the church and they have a lot of memories."

Work on the building will take approximately nine months, with services to be held in Tottington High School hall in the meantime.

A reopening and dedication will coincide with the church's centenary celebrations.