MEMBERS of Spring Vale Methodist Church have delved into the archives to put together a history of their building.

The church, in Watery Lane, Darwen, celebrates its 140th anniversary in 2014 and members want to collect memorabilia including photographs, written articles and audio memories of the lives and activities of anyone who came into contact with the church over its lifetime. 

The project is aimed at encouraging Darreners to send in their own memories so a complete history of the church and its community can be established.

Minister deacon Dave Keegan said: “Spring Vale Methodist Church began life as a Victorian Sunday School. It was built to provide education for the working class in Spring Vale, then called Sough, and for the congregation to live out the gospel. Over the years the area around the church has changed but the congregation still seeks to serve the local community.”

The church has set up a website for posting comments and memories.