HUNDREDS of visitors enjoyed stunning views across the Thames Estuary from the vantage point of a landmark Leigh church.

St Clement’s Church, in the Broadway, opened its tower to visitors to mark the final day of the town’s Good for Leigh campaign week.

The campaign was organised by Leigh Town Council to unite householders and businesses in making their area more attractive and prosperous.

The week-long event finished with a bang as hundreds of visitors came to admire the views and hear about St Clement’s fascinating history.

As well as the chance to climb the church tower, parts of which date back to the 15th century, the open day also offered guided tours of the historic building and the opportunity to enjoy home-made refreshments.

The day raised £400 for the church, through donations and from selling refreshments.

Organiser Elizabeth Youngs said: “We are very happy to open the church for the community so people can see how lovely it is.

“The views from the tower are quite something, and it’s lovely to go and see a different view of the town from up there.”

As the weather smiled on south Essex, people flocked to the church, much to the delight of Father Kenneth Havey, rector of St Clement’s. He said: “The day was a great success. We had hundreds of visitors from the local community and beyond.”

Throughout the Saturday, the church welcomed people of all ages, as well as many families, and, Father Havey said, the children were especially interested in the history of the church.

Another intriguing fact Father Havey proudly revealed is, because St Clement’s stands on such high ground, it is used as a navigation point by boats on the estuary.

Father Havey, who has been rector for the church for a decade, added: “St Clement’s has been at the heart of Leigh for hundreds of years – she is the oldest building in the town.

“We are always very pleased to open our doors to the people of the town which we minister, to share something of our contemporary faith and fellowship as well as something of the history and heritage our church represents.

“We are delighted to support our town council’s Good for Leigh campaign.”

The open day marked the end of the Good for Leigh week, and the campaign looks set to continue into the future, with plans already in place for councillors to meet and discuss future events.

Leigh Town Council chairman Hilary Davison, who has led the campaign since its launch, said: “This is a lovely event to be finishing the week with. It’s so good everyone at the church has helped support the campaign this way.

“The whole town has really got behind the campaign week and it’s been a great success, with lots going on across the town.

“There have been all kinds of events, which have been wonderful to see.”