When Reverend Graham Lindley's church, the Grade II listed St Thomas' in Newhey, near Rochdale, was damaged in an arson attack, he refused to let this piece of adversity get him down - after all, he's a lifelong County fan!

Large parts of St Thomas' were left gutted, and even gravestones blackened. But our 'Holy Hatter' hopes the building will be restored by summer 2009, thanks partly to a little earthly intervention courtesy of the FA Cup.

Local pub, the Waggon & Horses, won a national competition to display the FA Cup for an evening, on Wednesday 16th April. The pub owners invited people to make a donation when having their picture taken with the famous old trophy, with all proceeds going towards the rebuilding fund.

Another event will take place soon for the official handing over of the proceeds, likely to be covered by the Rochdale Observer. "But I'll be sure to wear the scarf!" said Rev Lindley, speaking to Stockportcounty.com. "I was keen to display the County colours alongside the Cup, and I hope (and pray) that one day the real County ribbons will be tied to the handles!"