A final appeal for donations has been made by Christians hoping to turn a working men's club into Bradford's first Christian pub.

The group wants to buy the former Bradford City Band Club, in New Otley Road.

Now, with just days to go before the group puts in its bid, the Reverend Robin Gamble has asked for last-minute backers to get in touch.

"Tens of thousands of pounds have come in already and we are close to our target figure. Support has been excellent.

"If there are any other people who want to be involved and want to buy shares or send a donation, they should do so and the faster the better."

The group called the Bradford Christian Pub Consortium, which includes a former pub landlord, is up against several other commercial firms.

Their aim is to reach out to people who would feel happier going to a pub than to church, to provide a good non-profit making local facility and to provide a venue for Christian events.

The building is on the market for £125,000.

Bids from all the parties will be submitted on September 9 and the winning offer will be announced soon afterwards.

Mr Gamble said he has received some objections to the scheme, which includes a fully stocked bar.

"There are lots of Christians who have a problem with anything to do with alcohol. We have all seen families destroyed by drink but it's not about getting people to drink beer.

"But I appreciate people's misgivings and I ask that they appreciate our sincerity in a similar vein."

He added: "The number of people who never go to church and have said it's a really good idea make me think we are on the right track."

Anyone who wants to buy shares or make a donation is asked to telephone Mr Gamble on (01274) 586414.

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