A WEEKEND of celebration marked the 80th anniversary of Verwood Road Evangelical Chapel.

The church opened its doors for people to view a presentation on the church’s history at the weekend.

There was a buffet meal followed by music and ministry from Peter and Mary Reynolds, who were at the church’s 2008 anniversary.

When the Verwood Road Evangelical Chapel first opened, there were only around 100 homes in the village. It has been housed in three buildings, the last of which was built in 1976.

A building fund was set up to pay for a new home and £16,210.25 was raised within the Fellowship and £8,407.16 from outside.

The current pastor Jeremy Andrews joined in 2002 and the church is now expanding in all areas, particularly among children and young people.

The church now hosts a wide range activities, including bible study groups, parent and toddler sessions, coffee mornings and special sessions for youngsters aged between five and 14.