WORSHIPPERS past and present reunited with friends and acquaintances for the 50th birthday of a Basingstoke church.

Nearly 100 people gathered at St Peter’s Church in South Ham to mark the milestone occasion on Saturday.

It was the first of two celebrations taking place at the Church of England church, with the second planned for Tuesday, April 28, when a landmark service will be held exactly to the hour of when the church hosted its inaugural service in 1965.

The ceremony will be led by the Bishop of Basingstoke, Reverend Canon David Williams and feature prayers, readings and a special reception.

Saturday’s open day was attended by many people who had been married and Baptised at St Peter’s.

A display of vintage photos featuring old images of the congregation and building was on show while old registers were also available to look through.

Vicar Reverend Liz Griffiths planted a yew tree in the church yard and also welcomed members of the community for refreshments.

Foundations for a permanent church to replace a wooden hut previously there began in 1963.

It was a time when thousands of people were moving into newly-built post-war council housing.

Since then the church has grown to be a hub in the community with its hall home to a series of groups including the 2nd South Ham Guides. It also has ecumenical links with nearby Roman Catholic and Methodist churches.

Rev Griffiths said: “It was very enjoyable.

“We had many people who had been married and baptised here and those who remember the church being built when they were children.

“People spent a lot of time reminiscing and trying to spot themselves in the photos.

“It has been a great opportunity for people who haven’t seen each other for many years.

“We hope that the tree we planted will still be there in another 50 years time.”

The Bishop will also plant a holly bush at the 50th anniversary service which starts at 7.30pm.

All are welcome.