21 pictures as Archbishop of Canterbury visits Stroud area

As part of his visit to the Gloucester Diocese, the Most Reverend Justin Welby paid a visit to the Stroud area, including at community-owned Amberley Shop and Cafe plus the Long Table at Brimscombe Mill. 

He visited the Long Table on Friday as part of a party arranged by members of community venture to say thanks to the community for their support. 

The site was open with live music, activities and food - with the Archbishop popping down for an after-dinner conversation about radical hospitality. 

He also visited the community-owned Amberley Shop and Cafe located at the back of the Holy Trinity Church and opened last year. 

Mr Welby addressed the volunteers and congregation, saying: “Churches were not built to be used for two hours a week but to be at the centre of the community like here.

"This one invites people into the space and has a lovely design and atmosphere. It is the most incredible achievement here.

"I regret that I wasn’t as imaginative as you have been here in Amberley.”