THIS month marks the 75th anniversary of the opening of Immanuel Church, in Upham Road.

And to celebrate the event, rather than looking back over its past, the church is opening its doors to let everyone see what goes on day by day with an exhibition featuring groups who use the church facilities and more.

Invitations have been sent out across the surrounding area of the church, encouraging people to drop in for a cup of tea and a slice of cake on Saturday between 2pm and 5pm.

“We've always seen ourselves as a sort of ‘parish church’ serving the local community in Old Walcot,” said Steve Brain, one of the organisers of the exhibition.

“And I think people will be surprised to discover exactly how many community groups use the premises. There always seems to be something happening.”

Some 25 displays will be in place depicting what goes on at Immanuel other than just church services – including Guides and Brownies, choirs, dance classes, after-school maths classes and even a Samba band.

Originally a Congregational Church, since 1972 Immanuel has been part of the United Reformed Church. Along with Christ Church and Bath Road Methodists, it is a founding member of the 45-year-old Old Town Partnership of Churches.