Barbecue is sizzling success for Wisbech church group

A free community barbecue held to raise awareness of plans for a new church in Wisbech has been hailed a success by organisers.

The event held by the Throne of Grace Church members to highlight hopes of converting a former girls school into a church building and community hub saw dozens of people attend.

Its aim was to raise awareness of the plans for 1 Hill Street, Wisbech, to become a suitable venue for both services and community organisations.

The building, which dates back to 1818 and was previously a girls school before being converted into offices and recently used by the social justice charity Nacro, was bought by the evangelical organisation, Redeemed Christian Church Group, last year.

It has been used for members of the Grace of Throne Church since then, but work is needed to covert the Grade II listed building into more suitable premises for services. The aim is to open the whole of the groundfloor as an auditorium, which could also be used by the community during the week.

The upper floors, which were added in around 1850, could become suitable spaces for community use and the barbecue held at the end of last month aimed to showcase the building's potential.

Tina Cooley, who is leading the project for the church organisation, said: "The day was a success even if I say so myself all seemed to enjoy themselves. We are planning further events in the coming months.,leading up to the opening of the finished building and we hope the community will continue to support us."

If you would like to find out more about the project, or run a group that would interested in using the building contact Tina on 07460501270.