A PROJECT to restore a disused Oxenhope church and turn it into a modern family home will be the subject of a programme for Channel 4.

Makers of the Restoration Man series have been following a couple who have taken on the challenge of renovating and converting the former Hawksbridge Baptist Chapel property.

Series producer Bob Marsden, who now lives in London but grew up in Oxenhope, said: "Our presenter, architect George Clarke, has been helping and advising them along the way, and later this year they will finally move into their dream home.

"Our series delves into the history of the buildings we feature, and it’s been incredible to uncover the strong ties between the mills and the explosion in non-conformist church movements around these valleys.

"People would work together six days a week then go to the same church on the seventh. It's a very interesting history.

"To mark the centenary of the church’s opening, the owners are wanting to host a small fete, where we will celebrate 100 years and more of Oxenhope’s history.

"Our presenter, George, will be there to chat to people about their memories of the church, and mark its place at the heart of the community with music, games for the kids and lashings of tea and cake.

"It will be a fun day that’s open to all comers."

The centenary fun day will run from 2pm to 4pm on August 6 and will also include an historical display.

Mr Marsden, who spent the first 23 years of his life in Oxenhope, said he had been delighted to return to his former home village to work on this episode.

"The building was in a pretty good state, but it was still very much a church that had outlived its use," he explained.

"It used to be vibrant and busy, but sadly its congregation had fallen away. It is a lovely building.

"It still had its pews and altar, so converting it into a family home has taken a lot of work. The couple have pulled out all the stops to get the project done on a tight budget. They've done most of the work themselves.

"We've enjoyed filming in Oxenhope. All of the shots we took looking across the valley to show the old church's location look great. I'm hoping the programme will do the village justice."

The Restoration Man episode featuring Hawksbridge Baptist Chapel is due to be screened on Channel 4 early next year.