A NEW church is set to open in Poundbury next month.

Members of Dorchester Community Church waved goodbye to the church’s former site on Acland Road on Sunday, September 16 following an ‘emotional’ farewell service.

The church has been on Acland Road for more than 100 years. However, for the last 35 years or more there have been discussions of the development of the Charles Street car park.

Until the new council offices were built Dorchester Community Church was the only building left standing on the site, having been built in 1904.

The church made the decision to move its premise to Poundbury following an invitation from the Duchy. The move marks the end of an era.

Church Leader Roger Frapwell said: “It's been quite an emotional rollercoaster. Of course, we are excited to have the opportunity to be in new premises and to be the only Church in Poundbury, but we also recognise that the building where we have been for so long represents a lot of memories for many people.

“One of our members was first brought to the church back in 1937. Others have joined in more recent years and are looking forward to the opportunity of connecting with a new community and also being creative by offering different 'styles' of church. We are creating several 'menu options', there will be a choice of three 'main courses' if you like, café style church will operate every Saturday at 10.30am, then a more contemporary style will take place every Sunday at 10.30am with a more traditional service being held at 6pm. Hopefully there will be something for everyone."