Worshippers are looking back over 150 years of history as part of milestone celebrations at their beloved church.

Members of Coseley’s Ebenezer Baptist Church have been dusting off their old photograph albums in a bid to bring a slice of its past alive.

Black and white snaps of the place of worship and the important figures which have helped transform it into the place it is today are being put back into the spotlight for the first time in decades.

A lot has changed since it was first built back in 1857, helped along by an excited crowd of residents who joined forces to excavate the land when it became available for the church.

From its roots as a strict Baptist church, members are now enjoying a much more “free” atmosphere.

The church has had no minister for the past four years as its previous one has moved on and it is now run entirely by its loyal members of the 35-strong congregation, who are preparing for a weekend of festivities to celebrate the milestone 150th anniversary.

Eileen Humes, who has been a member of the church since 1981, said: “It is such a charismatic church and a place which is filled with so much love. Everyone who comes along wants to come back.

“We run a number of groups such as a youth group and the church is used well every day.

“It is very much a free church now. It used to be very strictly baptist but it is not like it used to be.

“We haven’t had a minister for four years and all the services are carried out by the three Elders at the church.

“Everyone in the congregation has something to do. It is like an extended family at the church.

“Everyone is really excited about the anniversary celebrations.”

A weekend of celebrations have been lined up to mark the milestone anniversary.

Members of the church will be showcasing their singing skills as the festivities kick off with a talent show tonight as well as a special anniversary service at 7pm tomorrow.

There will also be a service on Sunday morning at 10.30am on Sunday followed by a celebration tea party at 6pm.

Everyone is welcome to attend.