ST SWITHUN'S Church, Sandford, was full to capacity for a service of dedication and blessing of the new Undergallery room and facilities.

The service was led by the Rt Rev Bob Evens, Bishop of Crediton, who congratulated all those who had been involved in the project.

Particular praise went to Jim King, who was presented with a "Jim Fixed It - The Undergallery project" shirt and a two volume set about church bells and bellringing in Devon.

His wife, Rita, was also thanked for her work for the project and she was presented with a variety of rose named St Swithun.

The Bishop used the symbol of water and "the living water" through his sermon and in his blessing.

The Chairman of Devon County Council, Cllr John Berry, was among dignitaries who attended.

The priest at Sandford, the Rev Catherine Carlyon, co-ordinated the service and was assisted by Crediton Rector, the Rev Nigel Guthrie.

The service was part of a weekend of celebrations to mark the opening of the undergallery.

Graham Hope was also thanked for his part towards the project.

The new facilities include a heritage and community room, kitchen and toilet with access for the disabled.

The overall cost of the project was £98,000, which was greatly boosted by a grant of £44,000 from the Heritage Lottery Fund.

Other funding came from Pennon Environmental Fund (£5,000), Devon County Council (Exeter Airfield Fund), The Friends of St Swithun's, Viscount Amory Charitable Trust, Church and Community Fund, Archdeacon of Exeter, Norman Family Charitable Trust and The Allchurches Trust.

Donations and numerous fundraising in the local community raised £29,000 towards the total.

Alan Quick