Renovations are in full swing at Pembroke Dock's Bethel Baptist Church.

Members have not worshipped in the sanctuary for around 12 years, but now thanks to funding and the workmanship of builders and carpenters, Derek Edwards and Peter Cox, the prospect of reopening the church itself is in the pipeline.

Church members have been continuing to hold their weekly services and events in the schoolroom, but hope by having the restoration work completed they will be able to open the church for weddings, funerals and large services and events.

The project got underway in June 2010 and the exterior of the church, built in 1845, has been completely restored, with a new roof and paintwork.

That work was made possible with funding from the church building fund of £49,000 which was made up of donations from church members and friends over a number of years.

Grants were received from Pembrokeshire County Council - £3,000; All Churches Trust - £2,000; Garfield Wston Foundation - £5,000; James Pantyfedwen Foundation - £5,000; Baptist Union of Wales - £40,000 interest free loan.

The church continues to get donations from members and friends, and holds regular fundraising events, including coffee mornings and The Restaurant.

The focus of the project has now turned to the inside. The estimated cost of the interior work is £130,000, but there is only enough money in the bank to pay for another four or five weeks work.

"We are looking to the Lord to provide us more funding through grants," said Maggie Randall, secretary and deacon.

In addition to the restoration work, the pipe organ is being repaired by a local man as a gift of love to the Lord.