A CHURCH has celebrated its coming of age.

Members of Netherton Methodist Church marked its 21st birthday with a community celebration.

The Meltham and Meltham Mills Band performed along with comedian Peter Armitage.

The Rev Peter Hancock, who has been at the church for five years, said: “It was a brilliant night and good to see a full house.

“The church has experienced a new lease of live over the past few years and really is a place for the community.

“We had old photographs on display for people to look at the old church and this one as it was being built, which was interesting to see.”

The Chapel Street church first opened its doors on November 29 1986 and replaced the old church which was consecrated in 1867.

Bandsman Katie Eales opened the building when she was the Sunday School Queen and returned for Saturday night’s function.