Intrigued visitors have been queuing to catch a glimpse of a new chapel of medieval art at St Mary's Church in Hawkwell.

The 14th century chancel now contains copies of mediaeval, Byzantine paintings and other visual effects which portray the great events of the Christian faith.

Church rector, the Rev Tony Higton said: "We live in an age when many people are profoundly ignorant of the facts of the faith.

"In a recent MORI poll, 57 per cent of 18 to 24-year-olds in Britain didn't know what happened on Good Friday.

"However, we also live in an age in which people enjoy visiting ancient churches, respond readily to visual communication and in which mediaeval, Byzantine paintings are fashionable.

"We believe the new chapel is a beautiful and effective way of conveying the central truths of the faith gently and thoughtfully to visitors who will be able to sit and meditate quietly there if they wish to do so."

The new chapel, which had been under-used since the church extension, was unveiled by the Rt Rev Dr Laurie Green, the Bishop of Bradwell.

The exciting project was completed before Mr Higton, a controversial figure in the past, leaves to become director of the church's ministry among Jewish people.

Artistic - Maureen Bailey reads about one of the exhibits

Picture: STEVE O'CONNELL

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