NORTON'S Trinity Methodist Church, gutted by fire a year ago when an electrical fault set alight to the organ, is set to reopen at the end of the summer after a £310,000 restoration.

The minister, the Rev Stewart Young said the devastating fire had resulted in a previously planned scheme to update the church in Commercial Street, being brought forward.

"The aim is to make the church more user-friendly and accessible," said Mr Young.

He said the worshipping area was being turned round 180 degrees, with the entrance being switched to Plum Street.

The church's fundraising committee needs only £37,000 to reach the target after £160,000 was received from insurers, with a further £60,000 from the Malton Methodist Circuit, further cash from a trust fund and about £20,000 from the congregation.

"It has been a wonderful effort by everyone," said Mr Young, who is now seeking help from more than 100 charities to help raise the balance.

"We hope we shall have the reopening of the church by the end of the summer. At present we are awaiting a response to the new plans from the Methodist Church headquarters."

Mr Young said the aim of the redesigned church was to make it more accessible for the various groups which use it as a meeting place.

Updated: 11:11 Wednesday, January 22, 2003