WEST Fifers had a heavenly experience recently at Rosyth Parish Church’s open day.

Visitors had the chance to view the restoration work carried out to date, and agreed that the B-listed building was looking divine.

The first phase of conservation work began in October 2013, and is now completed with the roof reslated, windows replaced and dry rot eradicated.

It was carried out at a cost of more than £340,000, and was funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund, Historic Scotland, the Church of Scotland and other grant bodies.

Deacon Morag Crawford said, “The open day went really well. The people who came along were interested to learn of the plans for the second phase.

“They were impressed by the outside of the building and people have made comments that ‘the kirk is looking braw’ and that it looks outstanding.

“They’re looking forward to the next phase being done so the church can get back into use again.

“Local businesses have commented that it will add to the regeneration of the area.

“The restored building will allow the congregation to move back into the building 85 years after the laying of the foundation stone, and will provide a hub for the community at the heart of the Garden City.

“Our four local primary schools have put on concerts in the hall and the numbers would double if we were able to use the church building again.” Phase two of the restoration, costing £200,000, includes installing heating and lighting systems and insulation.

Funding is already in place, thanks to the Fife Environment Trust, the Robertson Trust, the Church of Scotland and other organisations, and work is expected to start soon.

Built as part of the Garden City in the 1930s, the church is currently used by more than 20 community groups, including karate, a weekly hub cafe and foodbank.

Phases three and four, totalling £100,000, will see the development of a tea kitchen, upgrading of the vestibule area to allow cafe facilities and converting the organ gallery into a hall.

There are also plans for a sloped commemorative walkway and garden, which will give access to people with disabilities.