THERE was an opportunity to take a look at repair work which cost £1m when a special reopening fair was held at St James's Church, at Blake Street, Barrow, on this weekend 19 years ago.
The Mail, on May 15 in 2001, noted: "The church and its community centre underwent a huge restoration programme costing almost £1m.
"Church members decided to give people in the town who have helped to raise funds for the restoration a chance to enjoy its official reopening.
"The fair took place on Saturday afternoon in blazing sunshine and attracted hundreds of people.
"There were lots of stalls, tombola, face painting for the youngsters and other entertainment.
"Also at the fair were staff from the town's Barclays Bank who helped to raise money for the restoration of the church's wooden front doors."
Members of the Barclays Employees Volunteer Group handed over a cheque for £250.
The Victorian church had been opened for worship on May 18 in 1869 and the dedication service saw mayor James Ramsden wear the gold chain of the newly created County Borough of Barrow-in Furness for the first time.
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