A CONGREGATION with a difference at St Laurence's Church, Ludlow, dug deep into its pockets and contributed more than £9,000 towards a new lavatory and a kitchen.

The money came from an auction of gifts and promises last Friday night.

When Nock Deighton partner Michael Evans brought down the gavel for the final time, the 150 bidders had paid nearly £6,000 for more than 50 lots.

These included a day on a canal boat, a tour of the Houses of Parliament and a wine tasting with supper for eight.

Other lots included a piece of music specially written by Ludlow composer Steve Dunachie and a whole collection of free meals in local restaurants and homes.

"People were extremely generous," said Mr Evans.

"They were even bidding £20 for £10 gift vouchers.

"I was delighted with the response."

So too was David Lloyd, chairman of the church's special projects committee.

After the auction, other donations and pledges brought the evening's takings to £9,225.

"It was highly successful," he said.

"It now means we are almost halfway to the £75,000 we need to raise, so the effort will continue."

Church architect Rod Robinson, whose previous work has included the light and airy restaurant inside All Saints in Hereford, has designed the toilet and other improvements, using modern materials but blending with the fabric.

The next major fund-raising event is in late November - a sponsored reading of the Bible, from Genesis to Revelations.

It is expected to take more than 72 hours!