A CHURCH that was once at risk of closure has rung out its bell for the first time in a year.

Following a major renovation and restoration work to the walls and roof, St Mary’s Church, in Llanfair Talhaiarn near Abergele, has reopened its doors to the delight of parishioners.

The church, which received a Heritage Lottery Fund grant of £108,00, closed in October 2017 and re-opened last month.

The church is now making efforts to transform its churchyard into a heritage and nature area. The church is launching the work on Tuesday, June 12, with a Big Nature Afternoon. This will be attended by Iwan Edwards, who presents Garddio a Mwy and works for the North Wales Wildlife Trust.

Visitors will be able to explore the nature and heritage of the church yard, learn about wild flowers birds and slow worms and join in a scything demonstration.

Maryann Williams, organiser of the afternoon said: “The aim is to develop the churchyard’s huge potential as both a heritage and nature area.

"Thanks to the funding from the Heritage Lottery and to a grant from Tesco’s Bags of Help fund we can focus on providing a space that will be a resource for not just churchgoers but also all in the community and visitors to our most attractive village.

"The afternoon coincides with the nationwide cherishing churchyard week. Children from Ysgol Talhaiarn will be visiting the churchyard and taking part in activities for the first part of the afternoon."

The event, open to everyone of all ages from 3.30pm until 6pm, is free and refreshments will be provided.