The parish church of St John the Baptist Church in Royston was rededicated by the Bishop of St Albans after four years of rebuilding work, following a devastating fire in 2018.

Nearly 300 people attended the service on Sunday, February 19, including Royston Mayor Cllr Mary Antony, MP Sir Oliver Heald, the Archdeacon of Hertford the Venerable Janet MacKenzie, the High Sheriff of Hertfordshire Sally Burton and the Deputy Lieutenant Emma Robarts.

The service included a blessing of the eight recast bells, which were rung before the service, and blessings of the new entrance doors and organ.

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The church's choir led the congregational singing, with celebratory anthems including Parry's 'I Was Glad'. The organ voluntary at the end of the service was the Widor Toccata.

This was also the last service of the current vicar Revd Heidi Huntley, who is moving to Cornwall after 10 and a half years in the role.

Royston Crow: A rededication service was held at St John the Baptist Church in RoystonA rededication service was held at St John the Baptist Church in Royston (Image: St John the Baptist Church)