MEMBERS of a church community in Otterbourne are celebrating 175 years of worship.

The parish of St Matthew’s Church, on Main Road, will mark the occasion with a series of special events from September 14-21.

On Sunday, September 14, from 9.30am parish communion will be followed by coffee and cake and on Monday, from 10am, there will be a coffee morning and card sale.

On Tuesday morning, at 10.30am, Otterbourne School have a celebratory service and, at 7.30pm, there will be presentation on the life and history of the church including a cheese and wine supper.

There will be a flower arranging demonstration on Wednesday at 1.30pm, followed by refreshments and the Mini-Matts Toddler Group will have a party on Thursday from 10.30am.

On Saturday, an open afternoon will be held for all the family including a variety of attractions, in conjunction with Otterbourne School from 2.30pm, and a patronal service will be held on Sunday, at 9.30am. At 6pm there will be a special celebration of 175 years service to the village followed by a buffet supper in the village hall. Tickets for this last event cost £12 for adults, £6 for children, and for more details call 01962 712241 or see the church notice board.