The church congregation is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year and is organising a range of events to mark the occasion.

Eastern Daily Press: The new Methodist Chapel in Downham Market which appeared in the Eastern Daily Press in 1966The new Methodist Chapel in Downham Market which appeared in the Eastern Daily Press in 1966 (Image: Archant)

Members are hosting a different event every month this year, including a special garden party on Saturday, June 25 to commemorate the weekend the church was officially opened.

Douglas Argent, 96, from Downham Market, said: 'I think it's marvellous that we're celebrating the anniversary and that the building is still so popular in our town. It is always busy here and continues to serve the community today.'

Previously, there were three separate Methodist chapels in Downham Market: the Wesleyan Chapel on Canon Square, Mount Tabor Chapel in Bridge Street and the Primitive Methodist Chapel in London Road which has since been demolished.

But it was decided that they needed to be amalgamated into one larger society and a new chapel was required – and the Methodist community themselves raised more than £15,000 towards the £44,000 church.

Eastern Daily Press: Cannon Square showing Methodist chapel, Downham Market (hh). T.W. Mollard collection.Cannon Square showing Methodist chapel, Downham Market (hh). T.W. Mollard collection. (Image: Archant)

Meg Cooper, 66, from Downham Market, is keen to hear from anyone who used to attend the church's youth group and is hoping to organise a reunion. She said: 'I have such happy memories of being involved with the youth group; it would be wonderful to trace any past members so please do get in touch with us.'

Is your church marking a special anniversary this year? Email louise.hepburn@archant.co.uk