Carols mark anniversary of fire

Stained glass windows and the roof of St Paul's were destroyed

Parishioners of a church destroyed by fire a year ago gathered in the grounds to sing Christmas carols to mark the first anniversary of the disaster.

About 275 people attended the service at St Paul's Church in Addlestone, Surrey accompanied by The Salvation Army band and St Paul's Church choir.

"It was pretty emotional as we remembered why we were there," said spokeswoman Lynn Collis.

It is not known how the fire started but there was a break-in that night.

Stained glass windows

A projector was stolen but the burglar was unable to open the safe.

The roof and stained glass windows at the 19th Century Church Road building were destroyed in the blaze.

Most services are being held in its sister church, St Augustine's, while St Paul's is rebuilt.

It is hoped the work will be finished by Christmas 2005.

Burning roof

Only the four walls and tower of the church were left after the fire. The interior was destroyed when the burning roof collapsed.

The stained glass windows will be replaced by plain glass with stained glass panels rescued from the originals.

Most of the work will be covered by insurance but fundraising efforts include a "bear fund" which has raised £1,500 from the sale of donated teddies.

"The local community has been supportive and the fire seems to have brought a lot of people together," said Ms Collis.