WHEN churches hold much needed fundraising, a coffee morning or cake sale is usually the order of the day.

But a church in Harwood has taken a modern approach - and turned to internet auction website www.ebay.comeBay.

Fundraisers at Christ's Church are auctioning items on eBay to raise money for refurbishment to part of the church building and its tower.

The historic building is undergoing extensive work in order to enable disabled access to the church.

Vicar Robert Hazelhurst said major work was needed immediately and it is hoped the cash raised will help them to reach their target of £50,000 over the next two years. Fundraiser Julia Gordon said: "I was familiar with the site from home and one suggestion from the fundraising group was that we used eBay. We hope to raise as much as possible."

So far, a coffee perculator, an exercise bench and a steamer have been put up for sale.

Most of the items being auctioned will be gathered during Gift Month, a yearly plea for any items that would be useful to the church cause, beginning this Sunday.

Further auction information is available from Julia on 01204 436787.