SCARTHO Methodist Church has undergone a major refurbishment – just in time to celebrate its 175th anniversary.

The refurbishment, which has been ongoing for the past five years, has seen changes made to the front hall, which was built in 1939.

Church leader Heather Corry said: "Many members felt that much of the space was wasted and that it was time to make the premises much more user-friendly."

The hall now has wheelchair-friendly access, a more economical heating system, efficient lighting and double glazing.

The renewal was paid for by a combination of church legacy, fundraising, successful grant applications and the Methodist circuit.

The Reverend Ruth Charlesworth said: "It will really make a difference for the groups who use our church, such as the coffee group, which meets and shares difficulties. I will make them feel more comfortable."

She said even small changes, such as replacing the obscured glass windows for transparent ones, had made the hall feel more inviting.

As a thank-you, the construction workers received a special invitation to the recent anniversary celebrations.

Electrician Pete Brookes, 62, said: "The church is very family-oriented and made us feel welcome. We had a really nice service."

The church was built on the Louth Road site in 1836 and, as the congregation grew, the church was demolished in 1868 and a larger church was built on the same site.

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