Helen Muir, aged 91, died three years ago.

The money she gave the United Reformed Church, St George’s Road, St Annes, has enabled it to completely alter the old hall and annexe to the very highest standard.

This has included new chairs, tables, toilet facilities with two disabled facilities - one with a shower - kitchens, carpets, lighting, loop systems, spotlights and state-of-the-art health and safety features.

Originally from Stonehouse, Hamilton, Scotland, the money was a real boost for the church as only cosmetic repairs had been done to the halls over the last 50 years.

The work was completed over a 14-week period - a week early and on budget - with the help of a whole host of contractors.

The celebration event takes place this weekend, May 17 and 18. There will be a thanksgiving concert on Saturday at 7pm in the church when many members of the congregation will be taking part.

On Sunday, a service at 10.45am will be followed by an unveiling ceremony in the church hall by the reverend Nigel Uden, Moderator of the Southern Synod.

Guests will include the architect and contractors who worked on the refurbishments.

Reverend James Whately, said the sum of money made available by Miss Muir had never been made public, but added: “It was enough to enable us to do what was a major renovation.”