IT IS an unexpected twist in the tale of the former Avana Bakeries site in Rogerstone.

The loss of the firm was a major blow to the area when it closed to much dismay and anger in January this year.

And it is hugely disappointing that it has not been brought back into production by another firm.

But now the empty factory has been bought, not by a company wanting to re-start production there, but by a church.

Of course that means that it will not be a major site of employment.

But given that was not about to happen any time soon, it is welcome that it has been taken on and in such an innovative way.

Far better than to have the building standing empty and unused.

The Faith Church group has spent a not insignificant amount of money buying the unit, which it will now turn it into not just a place of worship but a facility for the wider community to use.

The church says it has big plans for the warehouse.

And it is open to ideas from people living in the area.

Charities will be able to share the site giving them the chance to have a base they would otherwise not be able to afford.

In our view there is the potential and drive there to create something unique. and