A COMMUNITY said a fond farewell to a much-loved church which is to make way for a new building.

Willington Methodist Church, in Lydia Street, is being demolished after members raised £200,000 for a new building, currently under construction in the car park across the road.

On Saturday (August 22), a memories day was held at the church, which dates back to the 1920s.

Congregations past and present came together to give thanks for past blessings, including couples who got married in the building, former Sunday school pupils and a woman whose father used to play the organ.

Visitors could also look at old photographs and share memories, while young visitors were treated to face painting and other activities.

The day ended with a singalong to Sankey and other old hymn favourites with John Willis on the organ.

The new building will be named the Open Door Church and will be a multi-purpose venue featuring a hall, lounge, office, kitchen and toilet.

It is hoped the whole community as well as worshippers will make use of the facility.