COMMUNITY groups in Thornbury are breathing a sigh of relief following the completion of restoration and refurbishment work at a well used historic building.

The scheme, costing almost £200,000, got underway earlier this year at 600-year-old Porch House, adjacent to Christ the King Roman Catholic Church in Castle Street.

Parts of the building, which belongs to the local Catholic community, date back to the 15th century at the latest, making it one of the oldest and most interesting in the town.

Today it is used by many community groups of all ages and interests and is the venue for popular amateur dramatics and other events.

The scheme's completion means it will soon be "business as usual" for Porch House users including children and youth groups, skittles league, amateur dramatics and the church's social club.

One of the first major events to mark the re-opening will be the Octopus Drama Group pantomime production of "Treasure Island" in early January.

The official re-opening will be marked in the summer with a Spirits of the Past event - a journey through time charting the history of Porch House and its previous occupants.

In addition to essential conservation and renovation work, the building now boasts an open plan foyer, new kitchen, enhanced lighting and new disabled facilities - helping make it one of the best community facilities in the area.

Father Alex McAllister, priest at Christ the King Church, said: "We're absolutely delighted with the help and support we have received which will benefit people from all over Thornbury.

"The programme has secured the building and its history for future generations."

The work was made possible by cash support from the Heritage Lottery Fund and from organisations including Ibstock Cory Environmental Trust, Biffaward, Oldbury Power Station, a charitable foundation plus support from the parish itself.

Angela Haymonds, secretary of Ibstock Cory Environmental Trust, said: "The Porch House will once again be a focal point for community activities and the trust is pleased to have helped give it a new lease of life.

"I hope people will enjoy the refurbished centre for many years to come."

Anyone interested in booking Porch House should contact Lesley Morrissey on 01454 418004.