A church forced to close for the first time in its 90-year history after it was ransacked by raiders will re-open this weekend.

Thugs smashed the main chapel door and the altar before stealing two chalices and leaving the inside of Our Lady’s Church in ruins last month.

The raid caused thousands of pounds of damage and services had to be cancelled.

But a staunch community effort has ensured that the church, known as the hidden gem of Hyndburn, will re-open for Mass at 6pm on Saturday.

The church’s parish priest Father Martin Saunders said Our Lady's will open with tighter security in place.

He added: "There is a new front door to the church and the new chalices will be up in time for the service.

“An alarm system, free of charge, and more secure locks on the doors have all been fitted.”

Fr Saunders said: “Because of the ordeal people have realised how important the church was to the community. It has brought them together. Our non catholic friends have been very good too.

"Several local people have offered to take keys so they can keep an eye on the church. Hopefully this was a one off because in 90 years they never even had graffiti there."

Police are still appealing for information following the break-in between 5pm on Friday, January 11 and 8am on Saturday, January 12.

During the incident thugs smashed the front door, then the altar before stealing a tabernacle with two chalices inside worth more than £2,000 in total.

Police said they dragged the items across a field before making off.

Following the raid Mass was cancelled for the first time in the church’s 90-year history

Villagers said Our Lady's Huncoat is known as the hidden gem of Hyndburn because of its distinctive look and off the track location.

John Donnelly regularly attends the church and is set to be there for an evening mass service from 6pm on Saturday, February 16.

The 76-year-old said: "What happened was terrible. Only low lives could do something like that. There is a lot of history in that church. I got married there and was a former altar boy at Our Lady's. I'm delighted it is going to be back open soon."

Anyone with any information on who may be responsible can contact police on 101 quoting the reference number EL1300163.