A NEW look United Reformed Church in Tavistock was recently unveiled as work to replace the dilapidated roof and an exterior makeover has been completed.

In August, the United Reformed Church in Russell Street was presented with a Biffa Award grant to assist in the installation of a new roof by John Rowe and Son. Smaller grants were received from Viscount Amory's Charitable Trust, Allchurches Trust, Beatrice Laing Trust, Tavistock Town Council, The Stoate Trust and the United Reformed Church South Western Synod Trust.

Since September, the church had been shrouded in scaffolding until last month when the transformation was revealed.

The members of the URC were delighted that the building has been secured for the future — but still have a £40,000 loan to clear.

The Rev Roger Cornish said: 'The Free Methodist Church was built in 1838 and eventually became redundant. In 1960, the Congregationalists moved in. The church is not just a place of worship, many groups and clubs take the opportunity to meet there all through the week.

'In 2003 the church and hall were completely refurbished inside, which gave disabled access to most of the building. This work revealed that major repairs done on the roof in 1992 and many smaller repairs afterwards were defective and fundraising began to replace the whole roof and install solar panels.

'The journey has been long and many difficulties were encountered so it is with great relief and rejoicing that the work is now done.'

There will be a celebration service on Saturday, January 31 at 2.30pm when the moderator of the South West Synod of the United Reformed Church, the Rev Ruth Whitehead, will preach.

Tavistock URC is a progressive and inclusive church and extends a welcome to all.