CHURCH-GOERS in Stacksteads have had their prayers answered - with a £67,000 grant.

The National Lottery today announced Holy Trinity C of E had been awarded the cash as part of the latest £3,192million windfall for North West organisations.

The Newchurch Road church will get a new lease of life with the repair grant from English Heritage and Lotto's heritage fund, as well as safeguard the future of the historic building.

The £17million Repairs Grants for Listed Places of Worship scheme will pay for the repair of 30 historic churches in the region. In Stacksteads, the money will go towards the tower and spire.

Michael McShea, a Stacksteads ward councillor and church-goer, said: "I am delighted. Anything that helps preserve a church, especially one as beautiful as this, is good news. This money will help keep the church alive and will be well received by the active congregation."

Judith Diver, a Greensclough ward councillor, added: "This church is around 100 years old so anything that helps protect Rossendale's heritage is a good thing."

Malcolm Cooper, regional director of English Heritage, said: "This latest round of funding will pay for urgent repairs to some of England's most loved places of worship but will also provide guaranteed access for the public."

And heritage fund regional manager, Tony Jones, added: "Religious buildings play a vital role in towns and villages across England. Today's announcement demonstrates our on-going commitment to ensuring these cherished buildings are safeguarded for the future."