AN ancient church has been brought bang up to date, with the installation of a new kitchen area and toilet facility.

The new additions to St Peter’s Church in Wilburton have cost �66,000 - and are the result of seven years’ of hard work, involving fund-raising and grant applications

The kitchen area and disabled toilet have been installed in the base of the tower, together with a new floor for bell ringers with access from the turret stairs.

The Grade 1 listed building dates back to the thirteenth century although its particular heritage feature is the fifteenth century timber roof.

The Archdeacon of Huntingdon and Wisbech, The Venerable Hugh McCurdy, attended a special service of thanksgiving on Sunday (2 October) to dedicate the facilities.

Amongst the many donations and gifts towards the costs have been grants from the National Churches Trust, Cambridge Historic Churches Trust, the Garfield Weston Foundation and the Donarbon (now Amey/Cespa) Fund, managed by the Cambridge Community Foundation.

Chairman of the Fabric Committee and local resident, Rosemary Hughes, expressed gratitude to all who had given of their time and money over the years to achieve the much-needed amenities in the church.

She said: “The architect, Shona McKay, and Taylor Driver Construction of Coveney have together created an area that serves the needs of our community for the twenty-first century.

“The design and workmanship are truly worthy of our ancient and beautiful church. We look forward to welcoming groups and individuals who will now find the building properly equipped to host events such as concerts and lectures as well as regular meetings”.