A VILLAGE church near Aberporth has embarked on an exciting new chapter by re-launching as a community hub.

St David’s Church in Blaenporth – a Grade II-listed building dating back to the early 19th century – has been completely renovated to make it available for community group use.

And members of Canolfan Blaenporth – who worked closely in partnership with Cymdeithas Cymuned Blaenporth Community Association throughout the ambitious project – are keen to stress that the facilities are open to all groups; not just those based in the village.

Church warden Angela Rees told the Tivy-Side the Canolfan Project had cost over £100,000 raised through a combination of grants and fund-raising activities.

“The work involved taking out most of the pews to create additional space; carrying out a lot of work on the floor including ventilation, insulation and the laying of carpet,” she said.

“We also installed new heating as well as a small kitchen and disabled toilet along with a new water connection, porch door and additional seating.

“The aim was to create a flexible space for church and community use and this space is now available for hire by the wider community.

“We don’t have a hall here in Blaenporth and the village school closed some time ago so there’s a great need for such a facility withing the community – especially after Covid came along and put a stop to everything.”

Anyone wishing to book the venue should contact Lon Rennolf on 01239 810852.

As part of the drive to advertise the premises, hire will be free for the first three months.