CHURCHGOERS in Bromsgrove are celebrating 50 years since the methodist church was opened in Catshill, with 12 months of community events.

October's open-air evening service will be followed by a Crib Festival, Valentine's Day and Mothering Sunday reunions and a children's play bus, counting down to the church's golden anniversary on October 14 next year.

The village church was opened in Golden Cross Lane in 1968, replacing the chapel, built in 1866, and the former church building, built in 1910.

Catshill Methodist Church minister Reverend Anne Smith said: "The church has been such a big part of the community since it was built so we wanted to plan something special to celebrate its 50th year."

The Crib Festival, which takes place throughout this week, will see local schools and organisations making their own cribs to be displayed at the church on Saturday (December 16) between 10am and midday.

The grand reveal will also feature carols around the piano, coffee and mince pies.

Happy couples who have tied the knot in Catshill during the last half-century will be invited back for a special Valentine's reunion on February 11, to celebrate love and commitment.

All those who have been baptised at Catshill Methodist Church will also be welcomed back for a Mothering Sunday service on March 11.

In the spring and summer, children can enjoy a free play bus, parked on the church car park, on April 21, May 19 and June 16.

Rev Smith added: "We wanted to offer something to the young children and families in the village without any cost or commitment by them, so they don’t have to be church members, or even have visited the church."

Other plans in the pipeline for 2018 include a talent show and art show.

For more information visit catshillmethodists.org.uk.