THE Salvation Army centre in Gorse Hill reopened with a song and prayer after overcoming a string of setbacks including fire and vandalism.

The ribbon was cut on the refurbished worship halls after a brass band and flag-bearer led a march through nearby streets.

The corps rallied round after using other venues, including Gorse Hill School and Children’s Centre, for the past 19 months.

Though insurance claims covered some of the £500,000 repair bill, members also met the cost through donations.

Major Fred Thompson, the commanding officer, said: “It’s very exciting.

“We have been away from our home and are very grateful to the school for accommodating us straight away.

“Now we are back in our place of worship and it’s all been refurbished and redecorated with a new kitchen.”

Major Thompson’s wife Eileen cut the ribbon after the crowd sang O Happy Day and joined in a prayer.

Divisional leader Major Paul Main said in his address: “It’s great that the sun is shining and it’s also great that we have this pleasing duty to reopen a Salvation Army hall devastated by fire and attacked by vandals. We are here today to rededicate the hall to the glory of God.”

Derek Bonner, 85, from Gorse Hill, was enjoying a happy day in his 22 years with the corps.

“Vandals set fire to the place by lighting dustbins at the side. It’s been terrible, but it’s going to be good to get back inside.”

The arson attack in September 2010 started after bins at the side of the building were set alight, which wrecked large parts of the building and caused thousands of pounds of damage.

Three weeks later the building, in Chapel Street, was hit by vandals who broke in and smashed everything they could.

The series of setbacks was completed by subsidence in a corner of the worship hall which had escaped fire damage.

The work is still ongoing and the corps’ Divisional Headquarters is providing money while the remainder of the insurance claims are finalised.

The opening and rededication on Saturday also included a service in the new hall which was attended by about 150 people.