A congregation in Kidlington is preparing a weekend of nostalgic celebrations to mark the 50th anniversary of its parish church.

St John the Baptist Hall Church, in The Broadway, was built in the 1950s because St Mary's Church was too far away and too small to accommodate the village's growing population.

Its foundation stone was laid by the Bishop of Dorchester in October 1957 and its first service held in September the following year.

Next weekend — Saturday, September 27 and Sunday, September 28 — neighbours, friends and past members of the congregation are invited to mark the anniversary.

Congregation member Margaret Day said: "It is very much a weekend of nostalgia. We will have lots of displays and old photos — that's the focus."

There will be a flower festival next Saturday from 11am to 5pm and Sunday 2pm to 5pm and people are invited to bring a posy in memory of loved ones to place in the Lady Chapel.

From 7.30pm, there will be musical performances from Nicky & Friends and Maddie and Mo. Tickets — including wine — are £5 and available on 018654 375942 or on the door.

The Rev Hilary Campbell said: "It's nice to be able to offer the church hall as a facility for the community and all the different groups."

A booklet of memories of the life of St John the Baptist Hall Church compiled by David Townsend will be available to buy next weekend for £4.50.