A church's controversial plans to sell off Victorian pews has raised a hefty sum which has been reinvested towards a modern refurbishment.

Tillingham’s St Nicholas Church has raised around £3000 by selling the furniture for £200 a-piece, allowing it to buy modern seating, a smoked oak floor, electrical heating and new lighting.

Parochial church councillor, Brian Ledger who managed the project, said: “I’m extremely pleased with the way the church has come along.

“It’s great for the church and the community.

“It’s much lighter in there now and more enjoyable to be in.”

The development’s next stage will see a kitchen and toilet installed, he added.