THE huge number of people who want to climb to the top of the 200 foot spire on Bromsgrove's St John's Church at this Saturday's open day has taken organisers by surprise.

So far more than 150 intrepid residents have said they want to climb the intricate web of scaffolding surrounding the ancient building at the open day, which is being held to show visitors the progress made to restore the church.

Jo Slade, who co-ordinated the successful Landmark Appeal which raised £600,000 to repair the crumbling stonework and restore the church organ, said that organisers now plan to put all the names of those willing to pay the £10 fee into a hat and draw out 50. Half will climb to the newly-leaded nave roof - the rest will have the opportunity of climbing a further100 feet to the top of the spire

"It is wonderful that so many people have shown an interest in climbing the scaffold at St John's," said Jo.

"We are keen to accommodate as many people as fairly as possible and we hope to hold a second day to avoid too much disappointment.

"Our main priority at all times is the safety of the guides and our visitors. We are looking forward to a very enjoyable and informative day where visitors can learn about the restoration project from experts and see skilled craftsmen at work," she added.

Sadly, due to insurance and health and safety factors, people aged over 65 will not be allowed to climb the spire.

Meanwhile, stonemasons working on the spire have been able to give the church authorities some good news this week.

A close examination of the final few feet of stonework at the top of the spire has revealed it is not as eroded as was feared and it will not have to be dismantled and rebuilt.

Jo said strangely a section midway up the spire appears to have fared worse from the ravages of time and the elements.

The open day runs from 10.30am to 3.30pm. There is no parking at the church or in Crown Close.