THE New Year of 1854 brought the Crimean War, the formation of Leigh Cricket Club -- and the consecration of Pennington's new Parish Church.

New Year 2004 rang in the start of Christ Church's 150th anniversary celebrations and parishioners can look forward to a year dedicated to the past, present and future.

Already a talk, flower festival, concert and mystery play are in the pipeline at the church built for a total of £4,800.

The foundation stone was laid in May,1853 by Lord Lilford after a parade, from Leigh's old town hall to the St Helens Road site, led by Warrington Borough Band.

The church, consecrated in June 1854, and built to accommodate 800 people, was soon hit by disaster. On New Years Day 1855 four pinnacles from the 80ft high tower were blown through the church roof after a violent storm and had to be rebuilt. A garden of remembrance was opened in the church grounds in 1964.

Of the 13 vicars in Christ Church's long history, the longest serving was the Rev Lawrence Spencer Murdoch (1906 -1946). The Rev George Parkinson served from 1958-71, Canon Robert Smith (1971-78), the Rev Norman Wain (1978-85) preceded present incumbent the Rev Peter Leakey.

Mr Leakey, a honorary Canon of Manchester Cathedral, was Area Dean of Leigh between 1991-2000 and has overseen various improvements to the Grade II listed building including the renovation of the foyer, repairs to the south aisle and roof, work on the chancel and an improved sound system.

They are looking forward to the year of celebrations which started with an all-age New Year's Eve Party.

On February 11 local historian Tony Ashcroft will present a combined talk and slide show on the 'History of the church' in Christ Church.

Between June 11 and 13 a Flower Festival will be the central event of the year arranged by Horwich Flower Club.

On October 16 a concert of church music through the ages has been organised by parishioner, organist, keyboard and piano player Mark Brown.

One of the biggest events of the year is expected to be the December Mystery Play performed by Lowton High School and church members.