FATHER Robin Isherwood from St Mary's Church in Alsager is seeking churchgoers to serve on a new fundraising group.

"At the annual parish meeting I made an assurance I would not talk about money until the church hall is sold and we are in a position of relative strength from which to assess the situation," said Mr Isherwood.

"However we are in 2005 facing a budget deficit of £9,000, and it would be irresponsible to do nothing.

"Most people are aware that attached to the PCC are a number of committees.

"This year we are adding another, a committee whose task is the brutally simple one of raising our income."

Donna Biggs has offered to be the committee chairman, and Mr Isherwood is seeking four or five people to offer their services.

Anyone who is concerned about the future of St Mary's and can help on the committee is asked to ring Mr Isherwood on 01270 875748.