A TWELFTH century church in Tilbury has had a makeover – into a 21st century community base.

A major restoration project means the Grade I-listed St Catherine’s Church has been transformed since March from a decayed and weathered building into a heated community gathering spot.

St Catherine’s, built on the spot where St Cedd founded his monastery in 684, also yielded unexpected secrets during the works.

Minister of the church, Canon Paul Robinson, described stumbling across some treasures buried in the vaults.

While probing the floor of the church, workers discovered a giant vault, in which they found ten coffins dated 1808.

Canon Robinson described the “spooky” moment they made the find.

He said: “It was like something from Indiana Jones. We were probing with hammers and then we went through the roof of a high vault.

“We stuck a camera down there and realised what we thought was a tombstone was actually an entrance stone, with steps going down.

“I was the only one who volunteered to go down!” he laughed. The coffins, including those of an early vicar, Eleazar Williams, and his wife, were the first find. The second was a buried 12th century doorway, which has now been restored to its full glory.

Canon Robinson spoke of his plans for the church and how he sees its role changing in the 21st century.

He said: “In the olden times, churches were more like market places, where people met and connected with each other, and now it’s going to be like that again.”

Describing the new look of the church, Canon Robinson added: “It feels more original, it’s ancient and modern all at the same time. You can see more of the mediavel church and we’re also going to have concerts here – jazz, even a supper club.”

Work to the inside of the church, including heating, a kitchen and toilet, as well as restoration works, were partfunded by Veolia North Thames Trust with a £350,000 grant.

Roof restoration, which will finish in November, was funded with a £130,000 grant from the Listed Places of Worship Roof Scheme.

The church is holding an open afternoon on Sunday, October 25, from 2pm to 5pm.