A DERELICT chapel that has been renovated in the hope of turning it into a community hub will open its doors to the public this summer.

The chapel, in Saltney Ferry, was purchased two years ago by resident Sonia Holdsworth with the aim of turning it into a community space for all residents to enjoy.

Alongside WACE - a Chester based community interests company - they have been fundraising for the required capital to turn the dream into a reality.

And this summer, their hard work will pay off as the newly renovated chapel opens its doors to the community for the first time.

The chapel, on Flint Road, will be the home of various activities and events which will take place between July 31 and the end of August.

The building will become a thriving community hub. Hot and cold drinks will be available to buy on site and activities include song-writing workshops, boxing training, dance and fitness classes and nest box building.

The chapel will become a community hall available to clubs and schemes over the summer, a place to meet, learn new skills, get fit and have fun.

As a Presbyterian church, it was well used and loved by members of the community around Saltney Ferry.

Weddings, funerals, special events and parties were all held there. A number of local people still have fond memories of their time in the building.

Unfortunately, the building was left to ruin nearly two decades ago and local people lost a valuable resource for their community.

In 2016, however, it was bought with the intention of returning it to its former glory. Plans were drawn up to renovate it and convert it to a community hall with an attached cafe.

Work finally began in December 2018 after receiving support from charities, local businesses and Saltney Town Council.

WACE's Darren Ankers, project manager, said: "Our intention is for this building to be vibrant and active.

"Although there are already plans to offer activities from local service providers, we really want to see new ideas from local people flourish".

Fro more information on what is on at the chapel and opening times, visit https://OldChapelCafe.com or you can find them on Facebook, named 'The Old Chapel Cafe'.