A GRADE II listed church in Salford, Manchester, which has undergone a £5-million restoration after being destroyed by fire five years ago, has been rededicated.

The Church of the Ascension, in Lower Broughton, was rededicated at a service on 19 November. The restoration, which began at the end of 2020 (News, 1 January 2021), was completed at the end of September this year.

In 2017, the 149-year-old roof and interior of the building were gutted by an arson attack (News, 17 February 2017). The building had just undergone a £750,000 makeover to form the centrepiece of a new community there.

The incumbent, Canon Falak Sher, said: “The Church of the Ascension is risen from the ashes now after five years. The presence of the church at the heart of the community is uplifting for the people of Lower Broughton. I am very pleased to be able to serve the people of God here.”

Diocese of ManchesterThe Church of the Ascension on fire in 2017

The Bishop of Bolton, the Rt Revd Mark Ashcroft, described the building as “iconic” for the people of Salford. “Now the adventure is to rebuild the living stones of a worshipping community that brings the light and life of Christ to Lower Broughton.”

Jeremy Trott, claims director at Ecclesiastical Insurance, said: “It’s fantastic to see The Church of the Ascension restored to its former glory following the fire and to bring the community back through its doors.”