A KATES Hill church will celebrate its 178th birthday by hosting its first service since 2002.

The service, which will include hymns, prayers and readings, will take place at St John's Church on Friday (July 27).

Led by the Reverend Robert Barlow, the service will start at 6pm and celebrate the on-going work to restore the church, which reopened to the public in September 2016.

Deb Brownlee, chairman of the St John's Church Preservation Group, said: "This is the best birthday present we could possibly offer to St John's and to all the people who have expressed a desire to attend a service in there again.

"Everyone is welcome and we hope many will attend this historic occasion. We have asked Reverend Barlow to say prayers to thank all those who helped to save the church, and anyone who wishes to receive a blessing at the altar will be able to do so."

A celebration fete - with stalls, entertainment and activities - will also take place at the church from 2pm to 5.30pm.

Refreshments will be available for those who wish to stay on for the service.

The fun continues on Sunday (July 29) as the church will host a 50p sale between noon and 4pm.

Bargain hunters can also grab three items for £1.

For more information about the celebrations, like the 'Save St John's Church, Kates Hill, Dudley' page on Facebook.