A church is St Ives will be enjoying a warmer winter this year thanks to a major renovation project which includes a new £122,000 heating system.

St Ives Methodist Church, in The Waits, have completed the second phase of its Project 200 scheme, so called as it was launched in 2015 to mark 200 years since the church community was first present in the town.

The old boiler room and heating system has been removed out and a newer more efficient system has been fitted.

A significant part of the cost – some £90,000 - came by way of a grant from the funding body WREN.

The remainder of the cost was met by donations from church members and users, the

Methodist church nationally, and several locally organised fundraising events.

“WREN’s support means all our building’s users will have a more comfortable winter this year, ensuring it continues to be a safe space for everyone to enjoy,” said minister Rev Matt Finch.

“We are very thankful that WREN have believed in us by supporting our efforts to ensure this well used church and community space has a long term future.”

In addition to Sunday morning church, the premises are used by many local charity and community groups, regular coffee mornings for the elderly and activities for babies and toddlers.

St Ives mayor, Councillor Tim Drye joined minister Rev Finch to officially switch on the new heating system during a Sunday morning church service.

Members of the church are now embarking on the third phase of the project, which includes redesigning some of the internal space to provide improved facilities for users of all ages.