Staple Hill Salvation Army celebrates 140 years

The Salvation Army in Staple Hill celebrated its 140th anniversary with an open day and live music

A church and community centre and its members have celebrated 140 years of work in the community.

The Staple Hill Salvation Army centre in Bristol was refurbished to mark the anniversary.

The event over the weekend included exhibitions, guided tours, activities and live music.

Majors Colin Hylton-Jones and Nicola Hylton-Jones said it was important to "spend time with people, to reflect on the history of our church".

The Salvation Army band also performed for visitors

"I believe the enduring presence of The Salvation Army in Staple Hill is a result of our close connection with the community," Nicola Hylton-Jones said.

She said the refurbishment work, made possible through a grant from the Harry Crook Foundation, will help The Salvation Army serve the community "more effectively".

Ms Hylton-Jones said the church has always had a "close connection" with the Staple Hill community in Bristol

"The work has made the building more flexible and we have increased the capacity in our worship hall by adding a gallery as there wasn't enough room previously. The toilets have also been updated.

"What we have done is futureproof our building so that we can serve our local community well into the future," Ms Hylton-Jones added.