A church in North Shields has launched a campaign to appeal for £30,000 in order to make essential repairs to its large tower, which has been standing for almost all of its 355 year existence.
Christ Church on Preston Road has been stood at the centre of the town for over 300 years, making it one of the oldest buildings in North Tyneside.
The building was consecrated on July 5th 1668, with the tower and six bells being added in 1788, and first rung for the official birthday of Queen Charlotte on January 18th.
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The church was in a large field when it was first built, but North Shields has been developed around it in the centuries that have followed, and is also one of the tallest buildings in North Tyneside.
It has survived extreme weather and war, and has stood the test of time, becoming one of the few constants in the history of North Shields and the wider North East.
For almost 240 years, the bells at Christ Church have been rung at times of joy and sorrow, such as the coronations of Queen Victoria and King Charles III and the funeral of Queen Elizabeth II.
This takes place thanks to an active band of bell ringers, which now includes eight new learners who were recruited through the coronation 'Ring for the King' scheme.
These learners were able to ring the bells on the day of the Coronation, supported by experienced ringers. The bells are rung every Sunday and on local occasions as well.
Michael Scott, who is part of the appeal committee, asked people to consider donating to the cause.
He said: "It is very important to us that we get the funds needed to repair and restore our church tower. We are not a large congregation and need all of the support that we can get from the community.
"The bell ringers are fortunate to have received an input of new, enthusiastic learners following the Coronation 'Ring for the King' appeal but they need a water tight and windproof building to work in.
"We hope that people can help in any way that they can, as it would mean so much and make such a difference to a building right in the heart of North Shields."
