IN 1996 the congregation at a Golborne Church had a vision for the future.

They decided that Heath Street Methodist Church needed a £90,000 facelift if it was to meet the needs of the new Millennium.

And now that dream has come true.

The church, which has served the community since 1871, has been rededicated in a service conducted by the Rev Dr John B Taylor, chairman of the Liverpool Methodist District.

The church, situated in the conservation area at the heart of the village, has an open door policy, serves as a social centre and is used by local charities.

Five years ago members decided that if it was to expand its service to the community it needed to make basic repairs to the building and set about modernising the interior.

This was the start of the Vision 2000 project, and the development has seen the creation of a new kitchen, the resiting of the entrance into a more welcoming community hall, ramp access into the hall and church, wheelchair accessible toilets and improved heating.

The church, which forms part of the Makerfield Methodist Circuit and is served by the Rev E Bruce Deakin, has a welcoming policy towards baptism, marriage and death and greets people of every background.

One of its stated aims is "to eradicate within our church all forms of discrimination that emanate from differences in race, culture, gender, sexuality or ability".

It is valued as a meeting place, holds fund raisers for Wigan and Leigh Hospice, opening the premises to community groups, including a youth club and drama group.

Treasurer Geoff Branch said: "We'd like to thank everyone who has helped bring the vision to reality."

Fund raising continues with the return of the exciting boy-girl duo Helen Quinn and Andy Allan for "An Evening With Powder Blue" on Friday, March 16, at Lowton Civic Hall at 7.30pm. Tickets are £5 including refreshments and are available by ringing 510353. They are also available at the church during the daily coffee mornings.