THE work of volunteers at the new St Luke’s Centre at Cotford St Luke has been recognised with a top award.

St Luke’s received the bronze award in the Best Rural Project category at the Christian Funders’ Forum Awards at Mercers’ Hall in London.

Vicar of Cotford St Luke Preb Alison Norris said: “We were surprised but delighted to receive the award. Over the years, the church has forged strong links with the community and our newly built St Luke’s Centre gives more opportunity to continue this work.

“We simply want to make life better for our community. Since opening the doors to the new church and community hub six weeks ago, we have established a cafe, a baby group and bereavement cafe – and there’s more to come!

“St Luke’s Centre wouldn’t exist without the hard work and sacrifice of many volunteers – this award recognises all their efforts.”

Elizabeth Harley, from award sponsors Laing Family Trusts, said the awards celebrate the work being done by churches and Christian organisations across the UK, much of which goes unseen and unrecognised.

She added: “The needs within rural areas are well documented and we are pleased to have sponsored the Best Rural Project category this year, which recognises church-led initiatives to combat a lack of resource and increasing feelings of isolation among the young and elderly in these areas in innovative and creative ways.

“All the nominees are rooted in their local communities, understand the needs within them and are committed to addressing them by bringing people together to rebuild community.

“We hope the recognition they receive will not only encourage others to support them but also inspire others to replicate their work.’’

Each year members of the Christian Funders Forum give more than £30 million to Christian mission in the UK and overseas.

Some of the most innovative projects funded by the member organisations over the past year were recognised at the awards ceremony.