FARNHAM’S Spire Cafe has won a national award.

Located within the community hub space at The Spire Church, the cafe aims to provide a safe, supportive environment for anyone seeking help or for those just wanting to enjoy a hot meal.

And now the cafe has become the recipient of the Community Project Award for its efforts in providing a place of welcome and acceptance in the community.

The awards, sponsored by national church insurer Congregational Insurance, recognise the efforts of churches that engage with their community, to establish and maintain social initiatives.

The cafe was established 25 years ago and impressed the judging panel.

The project began in 1995 with the conversion of an area the front entrance of the church.

It initially had seating for 40 people, but the cafe now serves 120 people on a typical day.

Margaret Slater, head of marketing for Congregational Insurance, and a member of the judging panel, said: “The Spire Café is an inspiring project. They have met the changing needs of their local community and have ambitious plans for the future.

“We acknowledge the effort of their volunteers, church workers and employees and wish them every success.”

Michael Hopkins, Minister at The Spire Church, added: “I was simply delighted to hear we had won an award.

“This is a wonderful recognition of many people’s vision, determination and sheer hard graft.

“Thank you for celebrating that, and for helping us to share that with others.”

An online event will take place this Saturday (July 10) with an awards presentation at midday.

The presentation can be viewed live at www.youtube.com/user/URCUK