A councillor has visited a Victorian church to see how its parish are doing after 130 years.

Bedmond Village and the wider Abbots Langley Parish welcomed Phil Williams, chairman of Three Rivers District Council, to the Church of the Ascension (The Tin Church) in Bedmond for their monthly coffee morning.

The Tin Church was erected from a Victorian flat-pack as a mission church, meant to be destined to be sent to the colonies in 1880. Now 130 years later, it is flourishing as the hub of the community.

Cllr Williams said: “Faith plays an important role in many people’s lives and gives them a sense of belonging.

“Thus, I have recently given the church a grant to help with building of a ramp for easier access for people with wheelchairs and parents with prams and buggies.

“I am delighted to have had the opportunity to visit, talk to local people and learn about their local issues. I look forward to my next invitation.”

Wendy Ball, Parish Church council member, said: “Recently the Church has founded ‘The Friends of the Tin Church’ to raise its profile and to make some money to maintain the magnificent Victorian Gothic building.

“This has got off to a flying start with many successful events held during its first year.”