Church of Christ the King, Bowburn

The Church of Christ the King is located on the corner of Bede Terrace and Prince Charles Avenue, in Bowburn, County Durham. The present church was built in 2008, replacing an unusual, community-built church, knick-named 'The Pineapple''. Building of the original church began in 1963. It was a low-budget design by Harold Wharfe (who also designed Fountains Hall at Grey College) and much of the work done by local parishioners,  and many of the materials and equipment were donated by local businesses. The dome represented Christ’s crown of thorns. However, repair and maintenance costs escalated and the last service in the old building was held on 5th September 2004; it was demolished in 2007. The new church was opened on the 13th September 2008 by the Bishop of Durham and the Bishop of Beverly. The 50ft high fibre glass and steel spire from 1963 is retained with the new building. (Source: Christ the King Church)[1]