LAPFORD village will be the first stop for a "Big Blue Bus" in the very near future.

The Jubilee Christian Centre, which is based at Cleaveanger Farm, in the neighbouring village of Coldridge, has purchased a large, blue, double decker bus to take the word of God to the community.

It was about seven years ago that Paul Stanbury, church leader and pastor, suggested the church purchase a bus to undertake ministry work.

Earlier this week the bus, which is equipped with a kitchen, generator, comfortable seating areas, computer work stations and much more, was blessed at a ceremony at Cleaveanger Farm.

The bus was annointed with oil by the church youth leader, Seb Cummings and a ribbon was cut by a member of the congregation, 13-year-old Zoe Lane.

Paul Stanbury said: "Today is the fulfilment of a dream. Today we commission this bus, bless it and commission it before God.

"We will bring good news to our communities.

"It is a new form of ministry for us but it will enable us to share the gospel and love of Christ."

Paul said that the Leyland Atlantean coach will be used for youth work, Alpha courses, marriage courses and outreach work, hopefully with social welfare help in the future.

He said he hoped the bus would be a welcoming meeting place for young people and those of all ages.

Paul emphasised that the Jubilee Church would be working with other churches in the communities it would be visiting.

He said he hoped joint fellowship approaches would prove beneficial.

Lapford village will see the "Big Blue Bus" within the next few weeks and it is hoped that the service can then be extended to Winkleigh, High Bickington and Crediton.

The church also hope to use the bus to take its ministry to village fetes, local shows and other events.

Some of the church congregation have qualified to drive the bus.

The church, which has a lively congregation of more than 180 people, started at Cleaveanger Farm in 2001 and farm buildings have been converted into a church hall and associated rooms.

For further details, telephone the Jubilee Christian Centre on 01363 83774 or visit the website: http://www.jubileechristiancentre.com">www.jubileechristiancentre.com .

Alan Quick