FORMER Sunday school pupils at a Darwen church are being asked to share their memories for a special celebration.

Spring Vale Methodist Church, in Watery Lane, is set to mark its 140th anniversary this year.

Minister Deacon Dave Keegan said the Sunday school was completed in May 1874, with the last bricks in the church being laid six months later.

He is now inviting anybody with special memories of attending the church or school to come forward and share them for a commemorative brochure.

Deacon Dave said: “The church and school have been part of the community since 1874 and obviously they have grown with the community and the community has changed over the years.

“We have spent the last year doing some history projects in the run up to these celebrations.

“It is important that we commemorate the history of the church and how we have been part of the community.

“But we will also be looking forward to how the church serves the community in the future.”

As part of the 140th anniversary celebrations, a special service will be held.

It will take place on May 18 after the usual Sunday service, which finishes at noon.

Families are invited to take part in a bring and share lunch before another celebratory service at 1pm.

Anybody who has attended the Sunday school or church over the years is invited to join in.

Deacon Dave said: “We are really looking forward to it and it would be great if we do get people coming back for the service and for us to hear their stories would be excellent.”

Anybody wishing to share a memory for the booklet should call 01254 678858.