A TOWN centre church is inviting people to a celebration day to mark its 40th anniversary.

The event, held in the Ecumenical Centre, Evesham Walk near the entrance to the Kingfisher Centre, will feature stalls from a host of organisations that provide advice, support and social opportunities, as well as displays indicating what the church seeks to offer.

In addition there will be music at various times including jazz duo Sax Continuo and an organ recital, as well of refreshments available throughout the day with lunches and a buffet tea.

The Ecumenical Centre first opened its doors in 1976 as part of the new town centre development.

The Rev Stephen Levett, minister of Emmanuel Church, said: "As well as being a home for the church, the Ecumenical Centre was built to be a place of welcome, care and community for the people of Redditch, and to be a venue to host groups and organisations that themselves seek to provide support, care and counsel as well as social and spiritual opportunities.

"This event is intended to celebrate and promote the full and varied life of the centre today and the many groups that meet here.

"We are aware that each day thousands of people may walk past our doors, many not really being aware we are here and what goes on here. We hope the day will provide an opportunity for many of these to come in and discover what we believe is a hidden gem in the town centre with much to offer."

The MP for Redditch Karen Lumley plans to attend, as does Mayor Joe Baker. Members of the public are free to visit at any time on

The celebration day is on June 24 between 10am and 7pm.

For more information about the community day or the centre itself, call 01527 65952.