TWO hundred years of worship were celebrated at Bere Alston last Saturday.

Bere Alston United Church worships in the building that was the Congregational Chapel, built in 1811. Members of past and present congregations gathered to continue the worship and to listen to Fred Palmer tell of his memories of the chapel.

His stories included stoking the church boiler at 5am on a Sunday ready for the service.

He also remembered Sunday School games, one of which ended up with all of the children in a heap on the floor! Fred told the congregation he felt he had come home in being back in the building where he had found his faith.

After several rousing hymns and choruses the congregation enjoyed a cream tea served in Hope Cottage Café. This church venture is also a reason to celebrate as it is well into its fifth year of service in the community and is a favourite with many regulars who enjoy its friendly atmosphere and reasonable prices.