Methodists’ mission is accomplished

A Methodist church hall with a heritage stretching back 150 years, has been hailed a village’s new “Star Chamber.”

For more than a year, the upper storey of the church hall in Gartside Street, Delph, has undergone a massive £110,000 refurbishment to create a modern, multi-purpose space for the church and local community.

And although the church provided a significant amount of funds, businesses, organisations, individuals and grants from trusts ensured the work was completed.

In addition to painting, replastering and rewriting, a new stage, lift, toilet and small kitchen have been installed and church leaders praised everyone involved in the mammoth project.

Margaret Taylor, the church’s property steward said: “The toilet facilities make the upper floor useable by everyone and there is a small kitchen for the various young groups based in the hall.

“Now completed, these internal works allow the facilities to be offered to the local community both in and around the church as a flexible, accessible and pleasant space in the village.”

Activities

The Methodist Church has had a presence in Delph for more than 200 years with its buildings in use as a school, church and community space for almost 150 years.

In addition to church social activities, the hall is used for many non-religious activities.

Mrs Taylor added: “For many, our hall effectively is the village hall already, with a variety of activities throughout the week — during the day and evenings.

“The refurbished hall is the biggest flat space available in Delph and now the lift enables everyone to take a full part in whatever is on offer.”

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