A NEW LEASE OF LIFE BEGINS.

Byline: By MARK WELFORD

OVER three-quarters of a million pounds has been spent revamping a Teesside church.

The ambitious project at Grove Hill Methodist Church, Marton Road in Middlesbrough is nearing completion.

The aim of the six month renewal of facilities is to create an accessible, safe, comfortable and welcoming environment for the community.

Work is expected to be completed this month and the church is planning a range of exciting community events to launch the new facilities on Saturday, April 11.

A substantial share of the cost, which is in excess of pounds 750,000, was awarded from charitable trusts. Money was also raised by selling a piece of land to a developer on which a Tesco Express store has now been opened. The rest, over pounds 160,000, was raised or donated by members of the church.

The cash has been spent;

Remodelling internal space, renewing kitchen, dining and toilet facilities.

Providing a range of meeting spaces with access to media technology.

Ensuring that the building offers environmentally efficient heating and lighting.

It is hoped the church will be a venue for many different events including parent and toddler groups, concerts and lunch clubs as well as regular church services.

Reverend Martin Ramsden, said, "We are thrilled, after seven years of planning, to be at this point and we are looking forward to using these renewed facilities to enhance our ability to serve the community around.

"I am particularly pleased that these new facilities have enhanced our ability to serve young families and those with disabilities."

Additional grants came from Biffaward for pounds 51,000, Impetus Environmental Trust for pounds 44,367 and pounds 42,000 from the Veolia Environmental Trust.

CAPTION(S):

THRILLED: The Rev Martin Ramsden with church-goers, Brian Robinson, left, and Colin and Joan Bennison Picture by PETER REIMANN