Parishioners in Denholme will bid an emotional farewell to one of the village's best known landmarks this weekend.

Members of the community will gather together on Sunday to say a last goodbye to St Paul's Anglican Church, which is finally closing its doors after more than 150 years of worship.

And to mark the end of an era, St Paul's minister the Rev Liz Thomas will be joined by the Bishop of Bradford, the Rt Rev David Smith, and the Archdeacon of Craven, the Ven Malcolm Grundy, for the special service on Sunday afternoon.

An estimated 100 members of the parish are expected to turn up for the service, with Drighlington Brass Band providing musical accompaniment.

Known affectionately by locals as the Minster on the Hill, the church, which dates back to 1846, was closed to parishioners two years ago when extensive dry rot was discovered in its walls and ceiling.

Despite attempts to raise cash towards the huge repair bill, church members have finally acknowledged the closure of the grand old building.

After a recent meeting between church commissioners the building was officially made redundant on August 1, with its fate finally sealed by the Queen, who as head of the Church of England sanctioned the decision.

Rev Thomas says: "It is sad, in fact it's tragic that we are leaving, but it is not the end of the church because the people make up the church.

"We need to look forward to the future, and we need to make sure there is a worshipping Christian presence for the future generations in Denholme.

Rev Thomas says the church will still worship every Sunday in the Mechanics Institute, and it will continue to worship jointly with Denholme Edge Church once a month.

She adds: "Being in the middle of the village means we have more contact with the youngsters in Denholme and can involve them in more activities.

"We are hoping to work with Denholme Edge Church more often so that we can continue to offer a Christian presence in Denholme," she adds.

Following the departure of the Rev David Denton from Denholme Edge Church, discussions have also been ongoing about Rev Thomas sharing her duties between the two churches.

No final decision has yet been made, and if the move did happen it would have to be approved by the Anglican, Baptist and United Reformed Churches.

The final fate of the Minster on the Hill now rests with the Bradford Diocese Redundant Churches Uses Committee, which will look into possible other uses for the building.

Contents including the pews, bells and stained glass will remain in the church, with smaller items being stored in other churches in the diocese. The organ is now installed in a Cumbrian church.

Rev Thomas is also keen to stress that the £9,000 in the church's renewal fund, which was raised by parishioners, will remain untouched.

The farewell service will take place at 2pm and will be preceded by a procession from the front of the church.

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