The old chapel in Fore Street Kingsbridge has received a new lease of life through the efforts of its new occupants, South Hams Christian Fellowship (SHCF). The Grade II listed building was built in 1853 and was suffering from damp and disrepair. Over the last 18 months the chapel has been sensitively restored and modernised under the guidance of the South Hams District Council Heritage Officer. Gerry Matthewman, one of the church leaders said:“We wanted to maintain the character of the old building but also wanted it to be a welcoming, usable space. He added “We are delighted with the end result and hope it will be of real service to the community”. The project has used many local contractors, and has made efforts to improve the chapel’s carbon footprint by improved insulation and the installation of Air Source Heat Pumps.

SHCF has been meeting five miles away in Stokenham Parish Hall for thirty years but seized the opportunity of relocating to Kingsbridge when the building became available. Services are held every Sunday at 10.30 a.m. Visitors are always welcome and there are activities for children.

There is an open morning for the chapel on Saturday 6th November from 10.00 a.m. to midday for anyone who wants to drop in and have a look at the improvements that have been made. To find out more visit south-hams-christian-fellowship.org.