St John's Church to celebrate re-opening to public during the week

Historic church closed its doors due to thefts and vandalism

AFTER years of being closed to the public following a series of thefts and acts of vandalism, St John’s Church in Newbury will once again be opening its doors to the public.

Recently-appointed priest Rev Deborah Davison said the church in St John’s Road will be reopening its doors on Mondays and Wednesdays from 9am to noon to allow the visitors into the historic building.

To mark the occasion members of the public will be invited to the church in St John’s Road on Wednesday, March 16, with tea and macarons provided from the Real Macaron Company located opposite.

Rev Davison said: “We are very proud of our church, especially the people who have worked, prayed and served there.

“It’s at the heart of the parish with the busy roundabout at the west end and yet it is a tranquil place for a quiet moment or somewhere to wander around and simply enjoy the atmosphere.

“It is also brilliant for concerts, with superb acoustics. Do come along and visit us on March 16 to discover, or rediscover this beautiful place.”

The parish of St John’ the Evangelist was formed in 1859 and in February 1943 the first St John’s Church was destroyed during the bombing of Newbury.

The church was rebuilt at a cost of £58,000 and re-opened in 1957.