A formal ribbon cutting has seen the opening of Leamington's newest and tiniest hotel.

The High Sheriff of Warwickshire, Susan Rasmussen, brandishing the smallest scissors available, invited new residents in by cutting a tiny ribbon across the doorway to the Christ Church replica bug hotel in Christchurch Gardens last week (29 August),

The formalities were concluded with a short speech and a larger pair of scissors with full size ribbon across the whole building.

As High Sheriff, Ms Rasmussen's responsibilities focus on law and order. Marking the event she recognised the importance of green spaces sharing: "Christchurch Gardens with its Friends group and team of local volunteers, is a space that residents value and want to retain. Parks and gardens are important to our well being, but well loved green spaces can also help to reduce antisocial and unlawful behaviour, because their value to the community is recognised."

The bug hotel has been positioned close to plants and flowers, which will provide food for insects emerging from hibernation, rather than on the exact historical site of the church.

Christ Church stood opposite the top of Parade until 1959, when it was demolished, having fallen into disrepair.

Susan Rasmussen, High Sheriff of Warwickshire formally opens the Christchurch Gardens bug hotel, with help from Jeff and Leo (image supplied)

Friends of Christchurch Gardens committee member, Gary Mitchell, researched the type of shelter insects require and studied photos of the original church, before building the replica.

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Chair of the Friends, Alison Chantrey, shared "We have been working with Warwick District Council to enhance the Gardens for eight years now. We're delighted to bring history and nature together in the new bug hotel, which is a fun and eye-catching addition to the space.

"We're so grateful to the High Sheriff of Warwickshire for her support. Thanks are also due to Councillor Max Langar at Warwickshire County Council who approved the funding for this latest project, but was unfortunately unable to join us."

Having dodged the rain earlier in the day, those attending the launch enjoyed coffee and cake as they admired the new structure and looked forward to new residents arriving over the coming years.

To find out more about the work done at Friends ofChristchurch Gardens follow the Friends online @FriendsofChristchurchGardens or sign up to their newsletter here.