A ribbon was cut to mark the re-opening of Berrow Church on Saturday (September 14th) following a major refurbishment.
Over 50 villagers flocked to St Mary’s Church to watch the Deputy Lieutenant of Somerset, Rear Admiral Ian Moncrieff CBE, lead a ribbon-cutting ceremony to the sound of the bells.
The church in Coast Road, Berrow has had a number of internal changes completed during the last four months, including a new floor, the removal of old pews, the introduction of new seating, the addition of a new hearing loop system, lime washing, electrics replacement and new heating.
Talking to Burnham-On-Sea.com at the event, Rev Jonathan Philpott said: “This was a very special occasion for the church, but also for the village, with the works having been in planning for some 15 years.”
“Hard work has gone into raising £125,000 to complete the work and it would only be right to thank all those who have contributed in fundraising – including Viridor Credits with £50,000, Bath and Wells Diocese with £20,000, and £50,000 for the local community.”
“We now have a modern, flexible church that the community can be proud of – it can host a wide range of activities.”
He added his thanks to Berrow School for their hospitality during the four month closure of the church while the work was underway.
There were arts, crafts, flowers, cream teas and music in the church to mark the occasion.
