A SCHEME to extend Newchurch Parish Hall in Culcheth will benefit not just churchgoers but the whole community.

And the Rev Dr Chris Stafford, rector of the church, says people interested in the plans should go along to next week's Culcheth Community Day.

The extension plans are split into two phases - the first to build disabled toilet facilities at the back of the Common Lane building and the second to construct a two-storey extension to provide extra rooms.

A gift aid bid has already paid for the first part of the work, costing £65,000, to go ahead and now the church is looking to raise more money to pay for the rest of the project - a bill for which will top £200,000.

The Rev Stafford said: "This has been five years in the planning and from May, the first works will get under way.

"We hope when people see that work start, they will be able to support the second part of the plans.

"This is a community project because at the moment this building is not fit for purpose."

The Rev Stafford hopes that the extension could be opened as somewhere for people to go and enjoy a coffee after they have been out shopping and also somewhere the young people could use.

The main hall is currently used for a service for old people on a Thursday morning. The Rev Stafford says a storeroom will be converted into a prayer chapel as part of the work.

To find out more about the scheme and take a look at the plans, visit the Newchurch stall at Culcheth Community Day on May 2.