WHILE places of Christian worship face being closed, a new church in Bolton is thriving.

Oldhams Church was established at the start of the year, just weeks after fears thousands of churches could be closed down under plans considered by the Church of England.

Within months the new church has put itself at the heart of the community and could be the model for the future of prayer and worship in the future.

The church is held in the Barlow Park Youth Centre in the estate, with activities taking place throughout the week with the main service taking place on Sunday at 3pm.

The church is linked to St Paul’s CE in Astley Bridge where it was thought there was a need for a new church in the area.

Rev Ben Woodfield said: “This is a brand new church which was started at the beginning of the year from scratch.

“There has never been a church presence in the Oldhams Estate.

“The services are very informal and interactive, where we share message and have discussions, sing Christian songs.”

Already it is attracting 70 to 80 people to the services.

The church has organised picnics, Alpha courses and refreshments are also served up.

During the week, the church holds craft and other activities during the week for the people on the estate.

Said Mr Woodfield the church is very much led by the congregation.

Mr Woodfield said: “Not everyone who attends the church is a Christian, but we are a Christian family and we want to make them feel welcome.

“The church is here for the good of the community and we can work together to deal with the issues.”

He added: “This church has been borne up from the ground it has not been dependent on funding, it is dependent on us.”