THE CHURCH

The existing building was erected in 1897, incorporating a gothic style frontage with twin towers housing stairs that originally led to the gallery. In the early 1960s the gallery was floored over to create an upstairs schoolroom, with the original tower staircases giving access to this large, dividable room.

In late 1998, early 1999 the towers were re-roofed, and at the same time the heating system inside the church was replaced.

In early 2005, the existing pews were removed and the floor levelled to give greater flexibility within the building. At the same time, the sanctuary area was re-carpeted and chairs installed. The work was completed in time for Easter 2005.

At the entrance to the church, a large walled courtyard fronts the main road, allowing us to have two large notice boards that are used as wayside pulpits. Steps lead up to the front doors, with a ramp giving access for those who find it difficult to negotiate stairs or those with small children in pushchairs.

One outstanding feature of the inside of the church is our baptistry (shown left). At some stage during the life of the church, it was reduced in size by about a third, but still has a capacity of around 750 gallons. Steps either side lead into the two vestries, allowing for separate male and female changing. Work has just been completed to reduce the size and amount of water used.

As a Baptist church we practice believer's baptism by immersion. We believe that Jesus Christ called all followers of him to be baptised and turn away from what they do that is wrong. Baptism is a symbolic act of dying to our old self and being raised with Christ in newness of life.

Due to the fact that access to the upstairs schoolroom is a little awkward for those less mobile, a kitchen area is discretely positioned downstairs, providing a sink, worktops and cupboards out of sight within the main body of the church, but matching the overall décor.