St John’s Church in Farsley, near Leeds, has received a donation of cash and free materials from the Pudsey branch of Gibbs & Dandy builders' merchant.

The Pudsey branch has donated £350, which will be used to fund the ongoing development and running costs of the Friends of St John’s Church website, www.friendsofstjohns.org.uk.

The branch has also supplied free timber for the creation of a display area within the church that will showcase the ‘History of Farsley and its peoples’ exhibition, which will take place from 12 to 13 September.

As well as being a place of worship, St John’s church, on the junction of New Street and Old Road, is a popular community facility for the likes of the Brownies and Girl Guides, as well as parent & toddler groups. The church is also a place for the elderly to go and interact with people, have a bite to eat and learn new skills in the classes it provides.

Malcolm Haist, secretary of the Friends of St John’s, said: “The church is an important part of the local community, but we do need support to allow to us fund various activities. That is why we are deeply grateful to Gibbs & Dandy Pudsey for its kind donations and we look forward to working with the branch in the future.”

Ruth Harrison, from Gibbs & Dandy in Pudsey, said: “While Gibbs & Dandy is a national company, each of the branches has a strong connection with their local community. Here in Pudsey, we recognise the amazing contribution St John’s Church makes to the local community, which is why we’re delighted to support its activities.”

Image shows: (l-r) Christine Glover, chair of the Friends of St John’s, Malcolm Rushworth, of the Friends of St John’s, Ruth Harrison, from Gibbs & Dandy Pudsey, and Malcolm Haist, secretary of the Friends of St John’s.