The church, which was consecrated in 1838, is a grade II Listed historic building and will now host a year of events starting on February 20 to celebrate the success of the renovation work.

The events include an appearance by a vintage singing group, a choral concert, an appearance by a silver band, an art exhibition, summer fair, talks and an event featuring television antiques expert David Harper.

It is expected that the church improvements will enable the congregation to grow and allow more school visits, concerts, open days and community events to take place there.

New interpretative material will also heighten people’s awareness of the value of the building.

The Ven Nick Barker said: “We are thrilled with the work that has been done.

“The church itself has great quality and we have sought to respect that in the renovations completed.

“Due to the generosity of many we give thanks to God that we have been able to do more than we ever thought possible.

“We are very grateful to the Heritage Lottery Fund for their substantial grant.

“The congregation is excited about all we have achieved and all that lies ahead.“

Holy Trinity was built as a chapel of ease to St Cuthbert’s church to meet the needs of the expansion of Darlington after the arrival of the railway.

The foundation stone was laid on 4 October 1836.

The roof that has been replaced was the original roof and needed replacing after 175 years.

The first event to celebrate the work’s completion will be 40’s evening with the Doo Wop Dollies on February 20 at 7pm, followed by Darlington Choral Society performing extracts from Handel’s Messiah on March 19 at 7pm.