MEMBERS of the congregation at a Malvern church have been climbing to the top of their tower and seeing the town from a new perspective.

The tower ascents at the Lansdowne Crescent Methodist Church was held to raise money for the project to support a youth chaplain at the Dyson Perrins Church of England Academy.

On Saturday, July 23, it was the turn of Rev Alison Richards and her husband David, with four friends; Brian Edwards guided them safely up five ladders to the top, where they enjoyed magnificent views of the town, the hills and the surrounding countryside.

Those climbing the tower had bid for the privilege in an auction of promises held earlier this year.

The auction, together with other events, raised £5,710 for the chaplaincy project between April 2015 and the following March.

Among the other fundraising events were an arts exhibition and concert featuring Dyson Perrins pupils, a concert starring the Hills Singers, and fundraising dinners.

The church has been celebrating its 150th anniversary with visiting preachers, concerts, meals and an exhibition about the life of the church.

The church is embarking on a development plan, Connect 4 Mission, to make the building more accessible and open to all. The architect’s plans are now being submitted for planning and costing with more detailed drawings to show what it should look like. It is hoped that the refurbished building will be a valuable resource and venue for the people of Malvern.