SOME of the area's most beautiful and historic churches are opening their doors in a new initiative.
The aim is to give visitors the opportunity to go on a fascinating journey of discovery into the buildings' history, architecture and the unique stories of local heroes.
The Open Church Network includes 12 churches - Overton, Worthenbury, Bangor-on-Dee, Bettisfield, Bronington, Hanmer, Tallarn Green, Gresford, Rossett, Chirk, Holt and St Giles, Wrexham.
A new visitor centre created inside Bangor-on-Dee church portrays some of the history of the village and surrounding area.
Its thought-provoking display will fascinate visitors of all ages as the lifelike monk relates a story from the 7th Century, exploring the possibility that the church may be the site of an ancient monastery.
Manager for Northern Marches Cymru, Niall Waller, said: 'This project will increase awareness of the hidden history and heritage of the area and encourage visitors to discover the unique character of some of these rural villages.'
To celebrate the opening of the visitor centre and Open Church Network, an evening concert is being held at Bangor-on-Dee church on Thursday, July 29, from 6.30-9pm.
It will include local choir Choral Variations and music by award-winning Celtic harpist Harriet Earis, accompanied by flute and uilleann pipes.
Tickets, costing £1 and including wine and refreshments, are available from Wrexham Tourist Information Centre on 01978 292015. Booking is essential as places are limited. The project is supported by Northern Marches Cymru, Wrexham County Borough Council, the Welsh Assembly Government and the European Commission.
