EVESHAM'S Community Hospital welcomed the Bishop of Worcester to a special ceremony this week to re-dedicate the chapel.

On Monday, January 20, Dr John Inge, led the service at the hospital, which is run by Worcestershire Health and Care NHS Trust.

The hospital itself was built in 1837 as a workhouse and the chapel was added in 1902.

Of the original workhouse buildings only the chapel, now a pharmacy, and the old infirmary now remain.

When the original chapel was sold in 1992, proceeds from the sale were put into a trust fund and have now been used to refurbish the new chapel with inspirational art and other fixtures such as new lighting and furniture.

Hospital matron, Karen Young, said: “The chapel provides a space for patients, visitors and staff of all denominations and faiths to spend time. It also provides a quiet and calm environment for reflection for those who want to come and sit and have a bit of peace.

“This project has been such a joint effort, from carpenters and electricians to domestic staff. Patients, their relatives and the John Martin Trust have all helped considerably with funding.

“I am delighted we were able to have the Bishop to re-dedicate the chapel and help to cement it as part of the future of the hospital.”

Bishop John added: “The refurbishment of the chapel is a significant event in the life of the hospital and the community it serves. The darkness of the workhouse has been replaced by the light of healing and care found in the hospital and this new chapel celebrates that light, providing a space to reflect on the healing that Jesus gives.”