TROJAN efforts by a committed community have helped turned a dream into a colourful reality on an iconic parish church’s long road to restoration.

Three years ago, parishioners and supporters set out to raise £150,000 in their Seeing is Believing campaign to clean and restore the ancient St Chad Saddleworth Parish Church east window.

Now, backed generous donations from the Saddleworth community and St Chad's reserves, the stained glass and stonework has been completed.

This was celebrated at a rededication of the window by the Rev Canon Sharon Jones, team rector of Saddleworth, who said: “This is testament to the huge significance of the church within the history and life of the community, and demonstrates a desire to restore it for future generations.

“One million pounds is still needed for urgent roof repairs and the restoration and reordering of the interior for community use, including toilet facilities and disabled access.”

The church will be open to the public on Wednesdays, Covid restrictions are in place (visitors must wear a mask) between now and Christmas.

Dates are yet to be confirmed.