A CHURCH steeped in history held a rededication service this morning.

St Nicholas Church in Newchurch has undergone a radical makeover this summer after £100,000 was spent on a renovation project.

A special ceremony was held by the former Bishop of Sheffield the Right Rev Jack Nicholls to outline the church's vision and to mark its new beginning.

Reverend Sue Davies, who leads the church, said: “We knew we had to bring the church into the 21st century and now it has happened.

“The church looks absolutely fantastic, and we have a lot more space now for our different groups that meet here.

“Everything has been done to the highest standard which has totally enhanced the church.”

During the past 11 weeks the building has received a new kitchen, automatic glass doors, a central heating system, an upstairs meeting room and new carpets.

The funding for the renovation project came from the Lara Joyce Moore legacy which was left for the church more than 30 years ago.

Members of the congregation also chipped in to help fund the work to revamp the church, which was built in 1511.

Rev Davies said: “The church has now doubled the size of its community space for local groups including a Monday Club which sees 90 people attend every week.

“A youth club, singing lessons and mums and toddlers groups also use the space and we are now looking to invite more groups here.

“Rev Nicholls was brought up in St Nicholas Church so it made the morning even more special.”

For more information on St Nicholas Church visit www.stnicholasnewchurch.co.uk