ARCHBISHOP of Canterbury Dr Rowan Williams came "home" yesterday for his first major church service in Gwent since his appointment.

Although there is no official record, Dr Rowan Williams is believed to be the first Archbishop of Canterbury to re-dedicate a local church.

The former Bishop of Monmouth and Archbishop of Wales performed the service at Christchurch, Ebbw Vale, which has been restored following a fire two years ago.

For Dr Williams, and the 500-strong congregation, it was an extra-special event, marking his first major service in Gwent since being enthroned as the 104th Archbishop of Canterbury.

He said: "In the Valleys, more than anywhere else in the world, is the art of hospitality. I had a lovely welcome, I always do here. Coming back to Ebbw Vale and meeting everyone gives you strength to get on with the job, I saw lots of friends.

"As my first time back in the town since becoming Archbishop it is wonderful.

"There are people here I remember when they were 11 years old and are now grown up."

The oldest and youngest members of the congregation, 94-year-old Maud Baskerville, and 12-day-old Aaliyah Waggett, were given a special mention during the service. Mrs Baskerville, from Ebbw Vale, and four generations of her family have attended the church all their lives.

She said: "It is exciting to see Dr Williams back in Ebbw Vale, he is a dear friend."

Aaliyah Waggett is granddaughter to the rector of Christchurch, Rev Geoff Waggett. "She was blessed by the Archbishop, which was wonderful," he said.