A Civic Centenary Service brought a jubilant end to the week-long celebrations held to mark the laying of the foundation stone at All Saints Church on Portland in 1914.

The Reverend James Menzies. Team Vicar of Portland Parish, welcomed a large congregation in which all sections of the community were represented.

This included Mayor Ray Banham and Mayoress Mrs Pamela Nixon, Town Mayor Les Ames and his escort Mrs Jean Ames.

Prayers were led by Team Rector Reverend Tim Gomm, readings were by Rowland Reynolds and Hilda Swinney, an anthem was sung by All Saints Choir conducted by Margaret Stone and Michael Moore from St Andrew's Church in Preston was at the organ.

In his address, Revd Menzies stressed the importance of the church, as a place of worship and a willing server to the community.

He quoted part of the words of Revd Barnes Griggs following the laying of the stone 100 years ago. “And now both the stone laying and attendant services are past but I most sincerely believe the influence and blessing will remain.”

Mr Moore played the church organ for the first time since it was rebuilt by organ builder Michael Farley from Devon. The fundraising drive to raise the £30,000 needed was led by Mrs Stone.

The organ was first played in 1917 by Henry Alcock and then in 1940 Jack Overton took over for the next 62 years followed by the late Allan Stone.