WORSHIPPERS working to restore crumbling Spa church, St Andrews want to dub their cause a charity.

The Cornerstone group wants to rejuvenate St Andrew's Church, off High Street.

This month's parish newsletter reveals the committee is considering applying for charitable status.

"We need to look seriously at this to widen the number of groups we can contact," the report reads.

Radar

It also revealed plans to fund a radar ground search, like those used on TV show Time Team, have been ditched for financial reasons. Use of the equipment for just one and a half days, to establish exactly what's beneath, and surrounds the medieval landmark, was expected to cost £1,000.

Instead, The Parochial Church Council (PCC) recommended concentrating time and funds on the main building. Cornerstone Project launched in 2000 and set out to collect £750,000 for major repairs.

It's hoped the church can be transformed into a popular venue for concerts and exhibitions.

Small meeting rooms may be created and eight bells taken down in 1935 could be placed in an outdoor carillon.

Project members are now busy gathering drawings and sketches of their vision and the PCC has granted permission for costing and bidding to begin.

A floor specialist has already visited the 800-year-old and recommended a false floor to protect beneath the pews.

A report is also awaited from the YMCA, regarding provision for young people.