A NEW era for Bury United Reformed Church began yesterday with the stone-laying ceremony at a new place of worship.

Work has already started in Parsons Lane in Bury to build a new church, which is being relocated as part of the £220 million redevelopment of The Rock.

The Rev Ruth Wollaston, minister of Bury URC, unveiled a commemorative stone and dedicated the building to God with prayers for all who will enter. The old building has been in Rochdale Road since 1885, but will be demolished. Its replacement is due for completion next April.

Rev Wollaston said: "We are delighted to be celebrating the relocation of our church with a stone-laying ceremony. The new church will give us an opportunity to begin a new chapter in our history. A 21st century building will enable us to meet the needs of the congregation in worship and we will use the building more effectively for community purposes."

The Thornfield redevelopment should be officially opened in spring 2009. It will boast a Debenham's store and 60 other shops, cafes, restaurants and a multi-screen cinema, around 200 apartments, and 1,000 car parking spaces.

Councillor Wayne Campbell, council leader, added: "This is the first major step towards revitalising this town. There are significant further steps to be made, and I must congratulate Thornfield for the progress and the quality of this development."