BY IAN ROSS

CONGLETON people are being invited to 'book' a place in history by helping to keep churchgoers nice and dry.

St James' Church needs to raise £40,000 to replace part of the church's slate roof, which is leaking and in urgent need of attention.

The church is hoping to raise a major part of the money itself before approaching organisations for potential grants.

It launched a Buy a Tile campaign this week, by which anyone can purchase a tile for £20.

Everyone who buys one will receive a certificate showing the purchase, and the names will be recorded in a special book.

"People who have been associated with the church through baptism or weddings may wish to commemorate these special events in their lives," said Lyndon Murgatroyd, secretary of the PCC.

"People may also wish to remember loved members of their family in this way.

"It is a truly gigantic task for the parishioners of St James to raise £40,000, and it would be very sad to see such a wonderful Victorian building deteriorate."

The parish is also raising funds by staging a series of concerts in the church, the first of which will be Silk Brass on November 25.

For more details on the Buy A Tile appeal and the concert please ring Father Andrew Burton on 01260-273722.