New floodlights were due to be switched on to illuminate the tower and spire at St Martin's Church, Dorking, tonight (Wednesday).

The Chairman of Mole Valley District Council, Councillor Heather Ward, is visiting the church to switch on the new floodlights which have been jointly funded by the District Council and St Martin's Church.

Coun Ward said: This is the latest part of a programme to light key buildings in Dorking town centre. It follows the lighting of Pump Corner, the Dorking Halls and the War Memorial in 2001. St Martin's Church is a wonderful subject for lighting and the most exciting addition to the town's lighting schemes. It will be possible to appreciate the dramatic architecture of Victorian architect Henry Woodyer for miles around.'

Associate Vicar Rev Peter Shayler-Webb said: We are very pleased that this joint project has come to fruition and that St Martin's Church will be more visible in the town and from the surrounding countryside all through the year'

The design of the scheme is by Philips Lighting and the work has been undertaken by specialist contractor Lightning Electrical Ltd of Horley.

It is 126 years to the month since the top stone of the spire was erected on the 210 ft structure. The spire is one of Surrey's great landmarks, visible from the countryside around and dominating the town.