History of our Church and Community

From Six Pence to Sanctuary: The Remarkable Journey of New Life Community Church

In the heart of Blackpool’s Revoe community — one of the most economically challenged areas in the UK — stands a beacon of hope: New Life Community Church. But few know that the story of this church begins with a single act of kindness and a scoop of ice cream.

A Journey Begins

James Pye, a young man from the Lake District, arrived in Blackpool with dreams and determination but no money to his name. On his first day, he gave away his last six pence to a homeless man. In return, he was handed something unexpected — an ice cream recipe. That simple exchange changed everything.

Pye soon began making and selling what would become known as the finest ice cream in the country. His business boomed. He built a factory in Revoe, and the streets around it — Fern Grove, Lune Grove, Westmoreland — were named in honour of his Lake District roots. He sold ice cream at the world famous Blackpool Winter Gardens. He made small scoops called “Penny Licks” which can be seen in the photo below.

The Foundation of New Life

Decades later, as Revoe faced rising poverty and social challenges, Pye’s old factory became more than a relic of past success — it became the seedbed of a new mission. Inspired by Pye’s spirit of generosity, New Life Community Church was born to meet the needs of the people right where they lived.

Today, in that very neighbourhood, New Life serves over 100 residents through programs focused on family support, youth development, mental health, and community wellbeing.

A Legacy That Lives On

From £1 family haircut nights and youth budgeting workshops, to summer BBQs, science museum trips, and doorstep delivery of activity packs — every initiative speaks to the Church’s mission: to build community, foster resilience, and offer hope.

Young people learn life skills that school often overlooks. Parents find encouragement and respite. Families grow stronger together.

More Than a Church

New Life is more than a place of worship — it’s a living, breathing community hub. It partners with local organisations like Blackpool Council and the Revoelution Big Local, engaging families through social media, surveys, and direct outreach.

Guided by the legacy of James Pye and the strength of a devoted team of volunteers, New Life continues to grow — not in grandeur, but in impact.

A Future Rooted in Kindness

James Pye’s legacy reminds us that small acts of kindness can ripple across generations. From giving his last coin, he sparked a movement that now stands as a vital lifeline in the second poorest postcode in the UK.

New Life Community Church is not just history in motion — it is hope in action.