THE church in Burford near Tenbury has revealed plans to enable it to continue to support its community into the future.

St Mary’s Church has a fascinating history as well as an important role to play in the future of its village community, too.

In a tranquil setting, it's a popular venue for weddings and other family occasions.

“As our lives become increasingly isolated, we believe the church can play a vital role in bringing people of all faiths and none back into community,” said team rector Sian Harris.

“Already well used by the local school for services and lessons, we want St Mary’s to be a comfortable venue for much more community activity, for workshops and events.

“While we cherish our incredible history at St Mary’s, we also recognise that our building is not best equipped for its future.

“So we are embarking on an ambitious project to make sure that St Mary’s is a warm, inviting, well equipped building for the village and its wider community to enjoy.

“Our plans include an eco-friendly ground source heating system which will give an ambient temperature all-year round. Ensuring it is quicker, cheaper and less oil consuming to heat the church in the winter months. In addition we will install a small kitchen and toilet facilities.

“A great deal of thought and effort has gone into our plans to ensure that the physical appearance both internally and externally of our ancient church will not be compromised by these new additions.

“Our church is very beautiful, a place of worship, tranquility and refuge, but it can and should be be so much more”.

St Mary’s church is taking advantage of its own summer fete to be held on Sunday (July 16) in the gardens of Burford House to launch their ambitious project.

Committed to using local builders and services where possible, they plan to raise the funds required though grants, events and donations.

In addition to the building work, important historic monuments within the church will also be restored. Plans are in place to encourage local schools and others to visit and view this aspect of the project which is scheduled for May 2018.

St Mary’s invites people to learn more at their annual fete, on Sunday between 2pm and 5pm.