Swansea's iconic St Mary's Church is becoming Wales’ first minster in a special  service today.

The church which was rebuilt in the 1950s after being burned to the ground during the Nazis’ three-day blitz of the city in World War II, is a city centre landmark and has long been home to Swansea’s civic services.

It will now be known as Swansea Minster, a title given to a large or important church in an urban area which serves the civic community and hosts a college of chaplains who serve the area and its people. The declaration of minster reflects the importance of the building to the city.

The Church in Wales is investing £2.8m over the next five years from its Growth Fund to complete the transformation.

Vicar of St Mary’s, Rev Justin Davies, said: “There has been a buzz around the city since the announcement was made. I think people are genuinely pleased that the church is getting recognised for what it is, and in the place it is.

“It’s also seen as a boost to the city. Many city centres are having difficult times and Swansea is one of those, so to have something  positive happening in the middle of Swansea, as part of a greater regeneration funded by the City and County of Swansea  is a really good thing.”

Specially-commissioned music has been composed for the service by Sir Karl Jenkins with the former Archbishop of Canterbury Dr Rowan Williams preaching the sermon.

Singer-songwriter and Premier presenter Mal Pope also performed as part of the service.