A new vestry, kitchen and toilet extension was officially opened at a church near Norwich this weekend.

The Rt Rev Graham James, Bishop of Norwich, officiated at a dedication service at Caistor St Edmund church yesterday as the new building was welcomed as an important development for the medieval church, parts of which date back to the 14th century.

Churchwarden Graham Ford said: 'We are very pleased by the high quality of this extension and are delighted that the Bishop of Norwich joined us for a service of dedication.'

Caistor St Edmund Church is the only building within the second-century Roman walls of Venta Icenorum.

Marlene Symonds, also a churchwarden, expressed delight that the church is now able to offer improved facilities for church users and visitors.

She said: 'We have been planning this extension for about seven years, and are grateful for the late Hugh Allen whose legacy has helped fund the work.'

The church has plans to be open at times during the summer and members look forward to welcoming visitors to various events such as cream teas during the weekends when the annual archaeological dig takes place at the Roman town.

Details can be found on the church website www.caistorstedmundchurch.co.uk