THE opening event for the Leigh Parish Church's tower appeal was a world record-breaking success.

Now the organisers wish to thank everyone who contributed to the Guinness Book of Record candle lighting challenge, and who helped raise £3,000 towards the fund.

A team of firefighters from Leigh Fire Station's White Watch successfully lit 1,000 candles on a cake in the Spinning Gate Centre, and video film, still photographs and the signed statements of independent scruntineers have been collated and submitted to the Guinness World Records' Association.

A spokesman for the Tower Refurbishment Committee, George Bridge, said: "The Parish Church Council and congregation wish to thank all members of the public who donated so generously to give the tower fund appeal such a flying start."

The target for the fund to make the 15th century tower safe is £120,000.