The congregation of St George’s Church in Deal celebrated 300 years of worship, shared life and service to the community on Sunday.

The building was consecrated for public worship on June 16, 1716.

It has since welcomed hundreds if not thousands of families through its doors.

The occasion was marked with an action-packed all-age worship gathering led by Bruce Watson.

Alison Kent helped people think about the message of Jesus with a fun quiz, lots of brightly coloured jewels and St George’s usual great music.

Rob Stevenson, former member of St George’s and part-time minister at Woodnesborough, briefly told his own story of coming to faith 30 years ago to the day.

About 150 people then stayed on for a big birthday picnic in the sunny garden of St George’s, complete with tents and bunting.

Events co-ordinator Lynn Watson said: “A whole heap of fun was had with a bouncy castle and games for children and young people, a fabulous bring-and-share lunch, and live music from local performers Jack Scanlon and Tom Keenan.

“Julie Gill had baked a 300th birthday cake, decorated with an image of the iconic east window with its picture of the risen Jesus over Deal sea front and lifeboat.”

The cake was cut by vicars Shiela Porter and Chris Spencer and churchwarden George White, surrounded by 12 children and young people signifying a dozen generations of faith since the church was opened.

Mrs Watson added: “It was a wonderful day of celebration of God’s faithfulness over the years, and we’re grateful to so many of St George’s people who helped to make it all happen so smoothly.”