A CHURCH group has taken over an historic ex-military building in Colchester and will be marking its arrival in the town with a stunning display in the skies above the town.

The C3 Church is launching its new Colchester location this Easter, is set to secure a deal to take on the Abbey Fields Centre, off Circular Road South, with Colchester Council.

Formerly known as the Garrison gym, the building dates back to 1860 and was passed to the council from the MoD 11 years ago to be preserved for the benefit of residents.

The C3 Church, which already has churches in Cambridge and Bury St Edmunds, will host its first physical service at the premises on Good Friday.

To mark the occasion the church has also organised a plane to fly over Colchester tomorrow at about 4pm where it will write a sign in the sky to symbolise the hope of Easter.

Last years skywriting in Bury St Edmunds

Last year's skywriting in Bury St Edmunds

Nigel and Mandy Drew will be the pastors of the new Colchester church.

Mandy and Nigel Drew

Mandy and Nigel Drew

They said: “We are really excited C3 is launching in Colchester and are keen to see the C3 impact work transform lives and people to authentically explore faith in a relevant and contemporary way.

“Colchester already has many great churches and we are looking forward to joining with them as we reach and shape a generation with the cause of Christ.”

The new Colchester C3 Impact Hub will launch on Wednesdays from the old gym.

Eventually it will offer holistic care, well-being courses as well as provide access to groceries and hot food.

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Steve and Angie Campbell, senior pastors, added: “We are excited to be able to celebrate the launch of C3 Colchester at our Good Friday service this week.

“At a time where people are searching for hope we believe that the timeless message of God’s love through Jesus is as relevant today as it’s ever been.

“We are here to do good for the people of Colchester.”

A Colchester Council spokesman said: “We are delighted to be finalising the lease with The C3 Church, who will become the new tenant of the Abbey Field Community Centre.

"The new facility will provide support to residents and help strengthen the local community.”

The first service takes place at the Abbey Field Centre at 8pm on Friday.

All are welcome but tickets must be booked at thec3.uk/Easter.

To find out more about the church, visit thec3.uk/loveyourneighbour