THE Cowley church hall where comedy legend Ronnie Barker took his first steps to stardom re-opened to the public yesterday after eight years of being locked up and unused.

The hall of St Mary and St John Church in Cowley Road was officially opened after a two-year transformation project.

When project leader John Hammock first decided to transform the hall in October 2013, it had rotting floors, dirty windows and the rooms were filled with junk.

Today, the hall has undergone a makeover worth more than £130,000, with funds obtained through bring and buy sales, various charity events, and also grants from organisations across Oxfordshire.

Mr Hammock said: “It really is incredible, it’s a miracle. Starting something like this two years ago you wonder if it will ever happen. Seeing it all done is just unbelievable.”

The public were invited between noon and 5pm yesterday to have an informal tour around the hall, before a service in the evening.

Speaking at yesterday’s opening, Mr Hammock added: “Knowing that Ronnie Barker first started acting here, maybe one of these children will be the next Ronnie Barker. It’s exciting to think. There is a link to history here.”

The Two Ronnies star’s first taste of acting came with the Theatre Players, an amateur group he joined after leaving school. While there he took part in performances at St Mary and St John Church Hall, which the project committee are renaming The Richard Benson Hall.

Mr Benson was the founder of the parish and also contributed to many organisations and institutions in East Oxford.

Led by architect Patrick Stimpson and contractor Cherwell Oxford Limited, the building has two halls, underfloor heating, wood floors and a full kitchen. The windows have been repaired and the ceiling and walls freshly painted.

The new vicar of St Mary and St John Church, Phil Ritchie, said: “The newly- renovated hall is a perfect expression of our church commitment to hospitality and service.”

The hall is now open for a whole variety of community events and celebrations.