A Swindon church which started life in a car park has celebrated its fifth birthday.

Pattern Church is a new Anglican church in Swindon which was launched in a marquee outside the old GWR Pattern Store in 2018.

The historic building became their new home after a programme of renovation.

The group celebrated their anniversary on Sunday, November 26, as more than 350 people gathered at the church for a day of celebration called Pattern Fest.

A 10am service was held before the lower floor was cleared for activities including a silent disco and axe throwing as well as having candy floss, popcorn and biscuits on offer.

The ground floor was an assortment of craft stalls selling Christmas-themed goods with hot dogs and puddings served to keep everyone fed.

In the car park, a Westlea fire engine attended as various musical acts entertained people throughout the event. 

Joel Sales, Senior Leader of Pattern Church, said: “It’s amazing seeing what God has done over these last five years. People have found faith in Jesus, found community, and are serving Swindon in amazing ways.”

“Jesus changes lives, we’ve seen that again and again.”

“It was wonderful to celebrate with the community, we’re excited to see what God does next.”

A carol service on Sunday, December 10 at 6pm will see an all-age retelling of the Christmas story a 9.30am and 11am.