THE only Catholic church in Bewdley has celebrated 50 years in the town.
Holy Family Church - which took over the building on High Street half a century ago - welcomed some very distinguished guests for Friday's anniversary.
The Archbishop of Birmingham the Most Reverend Vincent Nichols led the service, assisted by the parish priest Father John Cross and Father Petroc Howell.
The former Presbyterian church was rescued by former RAF pilot Alfred Howell and daughter Merryn said it had come to serve an important role in Bewdley.
She said: "The church fell into disuse in the 1930s and 40s and was re-opened as a Catholic church by my father in 1953.
"It is absolutely beautiful and is a place of quietness and peace for all.
"We had a lovely service and a few people involved in starting up the church were present."
A reception was held at St George's Hall following the service.
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