A church in Sandridge is opening its doors to offer refreshments and a respite from the heat.

St Leonard’s Church in Church End is inviting visitors to come into the cool and enjoy tea, coffee and cakes on Sunday afternoons during August and September.

The 900-year-old church will serve refreshments from 2pm to 5pm, and members of the public are welcome to drop in and have a look around.

Associate minister Rev Peter Crumpler said: “We opened the church last August and welcomed in many visitors. This year, we have extended the opening into September as well.

“Serving refreshments gives many people with links to the church the chance to drop in and say hello. It’s also an opportunity for others to take a look around the church for the first time. If the heatwave continues, the church could be one of the coolest places to be!”

The church is also open throughout the week from 9am to 3pm.