Now 100 years on from those humble beginnings the Mansfield Road church has gone from strength to strength to become an integral part of the local community.

To mark their landmark birthday church officials held a recent service with ex-ministers, influential characters in the centre's proud history and members of the public.

And for Brian Tomlinson, secretary, the day was a wonderful occasion for all those connected with the building.

"It is great to reach 100 years like this and quite an achievement," he said.

"We were all really pleased to celebrate and commemorate the hardwork of everyone connected with the church down the years.

"A lot has happened at the church and it is something for everyone to be proud of. It has really served the community well.

"I have been a member for 30 years and have seen the church progress nicely. We have had a good impact on the community and we now want to continue that in the future."

In recent years the Baptist Church has significantly expanded the range and quality of services and facilities on offer.

It now runs a youth club, lunch clubs, music clubs, parent and toddler groups and have Sure Start facilities at their Eastside Community Centre.

The impressive multi-thousand pound building was developed using church funds as well as money from the Coalfield Regeneration Trust, EMDA, and Sure Start to create a hub for the community.

Brian added: "It has been hard work building the facilities up but well worth the effort. A lot of people have spent a lot of hours at the church.

"Ten years ago the church was a bit derelict but we have improved things such as installing better seats and heating to provide a better and more homely atmosphere.

"We have a lot of activities for all ages of the community right now and we hope to expand on these in the coming years such long-term funding for development and youth workers. Right now we are really pleased with how things are going."