Fawley (5 July 2007) -- A new set of dividing doors for their main hall means that even more community-based groups can now be accommodated at the New Hope Community Church in Hardley, Southampton.

The doors were purchased thanks to a grant of £2,000 from Esso and ExxonMobil Chemical at Fawley Refinery. They were installed in time for the launch of a new community project at the Centre called "Open Arms". This involves supporting members of the community of all ages by providing a place where needs can be met and friendships built over a freshly prepared home-made meal.

Tim Lockwood, senior pastor, said: “So far this project has reached a wide range of people from the community, from young mums to senior citizens. It has been extremely successful, with its informal and relaxed atmosphere. The hall is used for an increasing number of community projects including educational courses for parents with young children, community mediation, and various relational courses such as parenting and marriage enrichment seminars.”

He went on to say: “We are extremely grateful to the refinery for enabling us to adapt our hall in such a way that we can extend its usage for these activities.”

Carol Dunford, of ExxonMobil Community Affairs, recently visited the New Hope Centre to view the doors and whilst there met members of the successful and well established Little Acorns parent and toddler group.