THE congregation at Christ Church, near Coleford, is being invited to join in a celebration to mark the end of the first phase of a refurbishment programme.

In recognition of the 400th year of the King James Bible, parishioners and visitors can pop in between June 11 and 17. There will be a flower festival as well as a continuous reading from the King James Bible. Coffee will also be available.

The Bishop of Gloucester is also making a special visit for a Eucharist on June 17 (6.15pm).

The Rev Val Turner, parish priest at Christchurch, has been looking forward to the launch as she recovers from treatment for cancer.

She has planned a sculpture showing a walk-through Bible – people entering the church have the experience of taking a journey through the pages of scripture, she says.

Members of the Christ Church congregation have also completed a huge picture of Jesus, each one of 64 members painting a square to create the image.

Rev Turner said the refurbishment had created a more comfortable, flexible and accessible building.

"We want the church building to be a resource for community events that will really bless people," she said.

Following eight months of building work the church officially reopens on June 12.