A NEW annexe to St Mary's Church, Hayling Island, was formally opened by the bishop - providing extra facilities for the historic building.

Called 'The Lantern', the annexe includes a meeting room that can hold 20 or so people, a kitchen, toilets and storage space. It can be used for PCC or synod meetings, for refreshments after funerals and weddings, and for Sunday School groups.

Its design bridges between historic and modern styles, and includes underfloor heating. The project cost £375,000, part of which was funded by the church's Community Spirit appeal, which has been raising funds over the past few years. 

Building work happened between October 2018 and May 2019, and Bishop Christopher formally opened the extension at a special event in May.

The historic 13th century church was given a stunning internal makeover in 2010 to make it more accessible for community use, including the floor bring relaid, a portable dais created and portable chairs installed. Now that the kitchen and toilets have been added as part of the new annexe, the whole building can be used regularly for concerts, education and art events, and conferences.