REPAIRS and refurbishment have closed St John's Church, Lostock Gralam, for 28 weeks until the autumn

Substantial work has been needed for some time and it is only since the sale of St Andrews Church in Wincham that funds are now available for the work to be carried out.

The work will include facilities for the disabled and modernisation of the interior to make worship in the church a more comfortable and pleasant experience.

Parochial Church Council secretary Jane Hague said: "It is very apt that Easter symbolises new life and new beginnings as this is what is happening at St John's church.

"While the work is going on, normal services will be held every Sunday at 10.30am in the church hall to which all members of the community are warmly invited."

Following the retirement of the Rev Harry Stratton earlier this month, all the services will be taken by visiting clergy until the appointment of a new incumbent.

The last service before the church closed took place on Easter Sunday, when the congregation took part in an Easter Bonnet Parade.

The service was conducted by the Rev Simon Hamill-Stewart.