IT has taken three years but the demolition of Earlestown Baptist Church is now complete and members are putting rumour to rest by saying a community centre will be built.

The Church Fellowship have vowed to raise £250,000 and hope to see building works start within two years.

Broken-hearted members of the church were told three years ago that the dilapidated state of their building would not survive another winter and it has been gradually knocked down.

Plans are now underway to to build a £250,000 church and community facility which will include a cafe and rooms various events.

"We want to let the people of the town know that we are going to rebuild," said Val Singleton of the fellowship.

"It will be a multi-functional facility with something for everyone.

"We did a survey of 1100 residents and found that people really wanted a community cafe and this will be one of the things we will include in the centre."

A series of fundraising events will be taking place throughout the year, details of which will feature in the Guardian's What's On column. The fellowship will also be applying for grants to help boost the project.

Anyone who would like to get involved in raising the cash or make a donation can contact Beryl Finnney on 815913.