ST JOHN the Evangelist Church in Coleford witnessed its final service on Sunday, before the building is put up for sale.

Rev Sarah Bick said: “The weather was beautiful and we held the service outside. Around 60 people came, including our current congregation, those who used to worship with us and people from the community.

“We handed out a magazine with information about the history of the church and gave out tea plates printed with the church’s name. Candles were lit and we had many comments in the book that we left out for people to sign.

“The feedback I had suggested that people thought this was a fitting and appropriate service that allowed us to say goodbye and to remember what the building has meant to us over the years.”

The church is now in the hands of the Diocesan Board of Finance who are preparing it for sale.

Sarah added: “They are looking for a business plan showing how the building will be given a sustainable future. We understand there is a group locally who are hoping to come up with a viable plan with community benefit.”