London SE1 > News & Features > February 2000

Duke returns to Christ Church

The Duke of Edinburgh will be at Christ Church in Blackfriars Road this month to celebrate the building's 40th anniversary.

Prince Philip opened the present church complex in 1960 when the new building was not only to be the replacement for the bombed parish church but also the offices of South London Industrial Mission. When the Prince returns on Thursday 24 February he will find the churchyard being relandscaped with both a welcoming entrance to the 40 year old building and a new pathway linking Blackfriars Road to Rennie Street.

The Industrial Mission's activities include encouraging urban regeneration and Christ Church is itself now part of SE1's regeneration.

Inside Prince Philip will see displays about the work of the Industrial Mission and meet local residents who were present in 1960. There will also be displays by Christ Church's latest partner, the Centre for Health & Healing which has moved to SE1 from St James's in Piccadilly. Entertainment will include music by the London Nautical School Choir, drama by Blackfriars Youth Drama Group and dance by the pupils of Friars School.

Among those also invited to be present are the Mayor of Southwark and the Bishop of Woolwich.

The Duke of Edinburgh is due to arrive at Christ Church at 3.20pm.