THE search for funds to help a Malvern Link congregation buy its own church has been widened.

A total of £100,000 has been raised since February to purchase the URC Church and adjoining hall on the corner of Worcester Road and Pickersleigh Road from the trustees of the Countess of Huntingdon's Connexion.

This includes £25,000 from the congregation and the rest from grant-awarding bodies.

However, another £113,000 is needed and the congregation is looking for more charitable trusts and grant-giving bodies to help.

Church secretary Terry Blake said: "We have an active congregation of more than 80 but there's little hope of achieving this target without some outside assistance."

Mr Blake wants to hear about any charitable trusts or other bodies which might be able to help. He can be reached on 01684 575597 or at twesblake@ beaconlegal.co.uk.