A NEW wheelchair access at St Mary’s Church in Ely was formally opened on Sunday morning, when church members Pam and Len Reynolds cut the ribbon.

Before both services, everyone gathered at the main door to take a look at the new entrance that has included the levelling of the ground to take out the steps, and a new glass internal door that can be operated with a push button.

Until the Grade 1 listed building had the new access, wheelchair users had to use an entrance at the back of the building. Len said a few words of thanks to everyone who worked hard to achieve the new proper access for wheelchair users and all visitors to the church.

The work - which included the raising of stone slabs, the levelling of ground, installation of new drainage and the repair and adaptation of the external doors - cost several thousand pounds and was financed by the congregation.

Team Rector Alan Hulme said: “It was a wonderful occasion on Pentecost Sunday, to welcome everyone to St Mary’s through the new access. Our congregation wants to welcome everyone to our church, and I would like to thank everyone who made this project possible.”