AN ICONIC Meirionnydd church has received almighty praise as it celebrates its 300th birthday.

St Mary’s Church in Dolgellau has long-served the local community’s spiritual needs and will be celebrated with a series of events over the coming days and weeks.

The current church dates back to the early 18th Century but records show there has been a church on site since 1254.

The present church, a Grade II listed building, is entirely Early Georgian and is considered to be a rarity in Wales.

A spokesperson for the church explained: “This wonderful building is three centuries old.

“There was a St Mary’s Church here before, but by 1715 when a new Rector called George Lewis came to Dolgellau, it was falling down.

“George had to choose – repair the old church although its condition was bad, or let it perish.

“Or build a new church? That’s what George decided to do – the same church in the same place, but different – a new creation.

“We hope that you enjoy your visit to the church, if you would like to know more, come along on a Sunday at 10am or contact the vicar/team leader, Rev Tim Webb on 01341 388091.”

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