There were big smiles and huge relief as Malpas's St Oswald’s Church formally opened its new toilet and kitchen facilities last week.

The celebration of Harvest Festival on Sunday, October 14 marked a fresh chapter in the church’s history for new activities and events.

Leading the Harvest Service, Ozzie’s Sunday School Club greeted a packed church including skilled craftsmen and draughtsmen from F Suckley & Sons and Tim Ratcliffe & Associates.

In a family service devoted to the future and success of St Oswald’s mission; the Rector Ian Davenport extended his appreciation for the generosity of donors who had made the work possible.

Nick Toosey, a long-serving and tireless member of St Oswald’s, addressed the congregation.

He recounted communication with many levels of authority to justify their unending demand for more and more detail on significance and need for the facilities 'to allow our loyal congregation, choir and visitors to relieve themselves in comfort and security for the first time since 1375'.

Cate Howell, supporter and established member of The Friends of St Oswald’s was invited to “cut the ribbon” to open the extension following Mr Toosey’s tribute to her late husband Peter.

After the service, everyone was invited to join in a celebratory drink of Prosecco with homemade sandwiches and cakes prepared by the church’s entertainments committee.

The new church facilities open the door of opportunity to extend activities in St Oswald’s. Anyone interested in taking part in St Oswald’s activities and events or joining the entertainments committee contact Churchwarden Beverley Dobson 01948 861313.

If you wish to book the church for an event; please phone 01948 860922 or e-mail malpas.iandavenport@live.co.uk or revdhelenmolesworth@gmail.com