An historic Greenwich church marked the third phase of its conservation project with a blessing of the portico steps.

St Alfege Church marked the restoration of the East Portico with a ceremonial opening on April 19, including a choir and blessing of the steps with holy water.

Reverand Christopher Moody explained: "This was on the feast day of St Alfege who was martyred by the Vikings on this spot 1,003 years ago to the day. "

He added: "The east portico is considered by many architectural historians to be the finest feature of Nicholas Hawksmoor’s design for this the first of his London churches.

"All the money for the work was raised by the efforts of a local appeal committee led by Tim Barnes and included the generous support of individuals and grants including a substantial grant from Viridor Credits Environmental Company.

"The next and biggest challenge to our conservation programme will be the creation of wheelchair access, repaving and restoring the north side of the church."

For more information visit st-alfege.org