After eight years of planning, a village church has been brought into the 21st century.

Running water, a kitchen and a toilet have been installed at St John the Baptist Church in Bexon Lane, Bredgar.

Over the years, several versions of plans for the work were rejected for one reason or another when they were submitted to English Heritage, the Diocesan Advisory Committee or Swale council.

But a proposal was eventually produced which was approved by all interested bodies and permission was obtained from the Diocese.

Tenders were sought with the job finally being awarded to Jonathan Butcher Building Contractors, based in Sittingbourne.

Pews were removed from the back of the building and sold to local people and the font was moved to a position nearer to the door, allowing the vestry area to be enlarged to incorporate the facilities.

The work was completed over a period of four months and cost in total around £33,000. It was funded by donations and legacies given over the years and included £3,500 raised by the recently formed Friends of Bredgar Church.

Finishing touches were carried out by volunteers. The Bishop of Dover, the Rt Rev Trevor Willmott dedicated the new facilities on Sunday.

It formed part of the church’s ExCiTe (Exploring Christ Together) service which is held monthly. It was followed by refreshments being served from the new kitchenette.

The Rev Marian Bond said: “As a result of these improvements, the congregation is now able to gather around the font to view baptisms with ease.

“The open area is also available for people to enjoy refreshments after church. Already, people seem to stay longer to chat now that there is more space.

“The toilet is much appreciated by old and young alike. There is even a baby changing table.

“On another practical note, it is much easier to produce refreshments, washing up can be done using the hot and cold water in the kitchenette.

“In the longer term, we hope there will be more opportunities to open the church for visitors and to provide a friendly welcome with a hot drink on occasions.”