FILLED with light and blessed with stunning views, Norwood Methodist Church has a privileged position above Lindley Wood Reservoir.

A place of worship for Washburn Valley residents since 1926, this year is the 90th anniversary of the laying of the chapel’s foundation stone.

It is also 20 years since the building had a major redevelopment to add day retreat and conference facilities, including a lounge and arched window.

The church’s congregation has shrunk over the years but it continues to serve a close-knit community by holding services on alternate Sundays, sharing duties with Timble.

New warden and chapel keeper Brenda Greetham wants to enhance the property’s future by widening its appeal.

She said: “Part of my role is to welcome the congregation to our services on the second and fourth Sunday of each month. It’s a small, friendly congregation.

“Most people know about us, though, for the tea and cakes we serve on Bank Holidays and some Saturdays during the year.

“Not so many know about our retreat and conference facilities and we want to throw the net for that wider.

“We’re close to Otley and easy to reach, even though it feels like you’re away from it all when you’re here.

“There is potential for all kinds of groups. We get walkers and cyclists pass by and this would be an ideal base for a day.

“We’re right beside a mountain bike track through the woods and close to the Six Dales Trail.

“The church’s views – you could set up an easel and paint from our arched window – would appeal to arts and crafts groups.

“It’s a matter of spreading the word so people know about us.”

The church’s worth as a retreat for both faith and non-faith groups is reflected in comments in its visitors book, which range from “tranquil and beautiful” to “space to breathe” and “what a find!”

Its lounge, which contains a TV, DVD and CD players, a white board and a piano, can seat up to 30 people and all facilities, including the toilets and kitchen, are disabled accessible.

Brenda is keen to see schools visit. She said: “It’s ideal for staff away-days too, so we hope businesses will bear us in mind.

“We want to increase the number of individual as well as group retreats.

“If there’s one person who would like to come and benefit from the the peace and surroundings for a day, that’s important.”

Visitors are expected when tea and refreshments are served on Easter Monday, April 6, while the traditional lambing service, this year at 2.30pm on Sunday, April 26, is always popular.

Contact Brenda on (01943) 464458, e-mail norwood chapel@tiscali.co.uk.