A CHURCH is extending a warmer welcome to its community after officially opening a new entrance.

Around 80 people came to the event at St Martin’s United Reformed Church in West Moors.

The 90-year-old church’s original entrance was at the side of the building, preventing anyone from seeing inside unless they went in.

The new glass-fronted entrance and foyer enables people to see into the church, with its comfortable modern seats.

Timber from the original pews was recycled to form an illuminated cross in the church.

Sunday’s opening ceremony was presided over by the Rev Margaret Tilley.

Members of other churches, the parish council, villagers and contractors were there.

Muriel Cooper, the longest serving member of the church and a retired elder, symbolically cut the ribbon to open the new entrance.

Church elder Christopher Legrand said: “The church hall is already used as a meeting room for local organsiations but with the changes made, the church has became a multi-functional meeting area as well. “

In addition to the weekly 10.30am Sunday service, the first additional weekday event is on November 4 and 6, when the church will host the St Martin’s Discovery Group with presentations on local, national and world history.”

The ensemble group from Verwood Concert Brass Band played introductions and a range of hymns at the official opening ceremony and Naomi Lomax sang the Albert Hay Malotte version of the Lord’s Prayer and Bless This House, to loud applause.