Bicester church celebrates new ramp created after break-in

St Edburg's Church was targeted by thieves in May last year, who caused significant damage to the south door and the old safe.

The south door was the only step-free access route into the church, but was "unwelcoming" to visitors.

The new entrance at St Edburg's Church (Image: St Edburg's Church) The new ramp at St Edburg's Church (Image: St Edburg's Church) People using this entrance had to alert others to open it by banging on it or rattling the handle.

A specialist joiner was found to repair the door, and a temporary ramp was constructed at a different door to allow wheeled access during the work.

However, the church was able to keep this ramp after the repairs were completed, and the temporary ramp has now been reworked to form the basis of a permanent ramp at the church's main north door.

This means those with mobility scooters, pushchairs, wheelchairs, and walking frames can enter easily through the same door as everyone else.

Rita Wilkes was the first person to use the new ramp (Image: St Edburg's Church) On November 24, the first Sunday after its installation, users were united in their approval of the new arrangement.

Rita Wilkes, the first person down the ramp, said it was a "gift from God" to make life easier for people like her.

The rector, Revd Peter Wright, added: "This is another chapter in St Edburg's offering God's welcome to all, by making the building even more accessible and usable for the people of Bicester."