Anniversary for Silloth church

Last updated 08:01, Friday, 14 November 2008

A SILLOTH church painstakingly built by ‘a brick a week’ has celebrated its 70th anniversary.

The Evangelical Free Church took 10 years to build from the time it was established 80 years ago.

Member Averil Hodgson said: “The church was started in 1928 by believers who met for 10 years in what was known as the Cocoa Rooms and is now Silloth Cafe.

“Membership grew and each person donated enough each week to buy a brick.”

Their labours paid off in 1938, when the church building was completed.

Sadness struck the church several years ago when its pastor, Averil’s husband Edward Hodgson, died in a road accident in Hungary, returning from a mission.

Averil now leads the congregation in his place.

With just eight members, the group is small but very active in the community.

Averil said: “We have a good children’s network and have ladies’ meetings too.”

Celebrations saw the members take a trip back in time with a photographic display, anniversary tea and thanksgiving services.

Singer Ann Buckle performed at the celebration, and neighbouring pastor Peter Buckle delivered an epilogue.