A VICAR believes his church's problems are in the past and is looking to a brighter future.

St Peter's Church, Darwen, is being celebrated on June 30 with a special dedication service to its patron saint, led by the Rev Philip Gray, the Bishop's domestic chaplain.

The Rev Kevin Arkell, of St Peter's Parish, used the forthcoming ceremony as an opportunity to reflect on the previous year.

He said stained glass windows which were badly vandalised had now been repaired and protected with polycarbonate.

Financial problems had also been eased by constant fund-raising.

"We have a lot to give thanks for as a church," he added.

"I am very grateful to all those who have committed themselves to giving to the church and this takes an enormous weight and burden off those responsible for the day to day running."