HUNDREDS of “ecstatic” worshippers packed out a new church in Enfield to celebrate its long-awaited opening.

The Enfield Evangelical Free Church moved out of its home in Cecil Hall in 2004 after Enfield Council took it over and promised the congregation a new home.

Eight years on, the 400-strong congregation was finally able to celebrate its return to Cecil Road – to a new, modern church after years of meeting in Enfield County School.

Deacon Martin Finnie said many at the church members have been waiting much longer for the new building.

He said: “Everyone was ecstatic. We have got people in the church who have known about this happening, that a new building would be coming, for 20 years."

The new church was packed out on Saturday, January 7, for a service of thanksgiving to mark the opening of the new building.

Mr Finnie said original plans had been for a traditional church building, but the council and conservation groups favoured a more modern building which echoed the appearance of Enfield Town Library.

It has a main auditorium which can fit nearly 600 people, with studies, Sunday school classrooms and offices.

Deputy Mayor of Enfield Councillor Kate Anolue and MPs Nick de Bois and David Burrowes were among the invited guests for the opening service.

The church has decided to hold a series of open days to let members of the public see the new building.

Mr Finnie said: “We are opening the doors for everyone to have a look around and for everybody who is interested to see what's happening.”

The open days will be held on Thursday, January 12, between 8pm and 9pm, on Friday, January 13, from 2 to 3pm, on Saturday, January 14, from 10am to midday and 2pm to 4pm, and on Saturday, January 21, from 2pm to 4pm.