CHURCH authorities have asked for permission to cut down 12 trees to help preserve a rundown 150-year-old chapel which is facing an uncertain future.

Clearwell Parochial Church Council has called for help in preserving the village cemetery chapel, which was built by renowned Gothic Revival architect John Middleton in 1867.

The chapel has been fenced off for several years as the entrance door is in danger of collapse from the weight of the damaged rose window above it, caused by a large tree growing next to the main door, which has recently been cut down.

Rev Alan Wearmouth has told Forest planners that another two trees beside the chapel are “impacting adversely” on the structure, while most of the “self-sown and largely diseased trees” are damaging the stability of the boundary wall.

Last month, the church council appealed for anyone interested in preserving the building to get in touch so it can hold a meeting to try and save the building.

Rev Wearmouth said: “Our aim is to preserve this historic building for which our parish has no use and which we cannot afford to repair and maintain. It would be a sad loss if it was to fall into total disrepair.

“The parochial church council wishes to meet with those interested in finding a future for the chapel which is open to a range of possible re-uses.”

Graves beside the chapel include the burial plot of Clearwell Victoria Cross winner Francis Miles, who single-handedly took out two enemy machine gun posts in 1918 and lived in the village until 1961. 

Anyone with the skills and equipment to remove diseased trees, and anyone who would like to help save the chapel is asked to contact parish co-ordinator Alison Stuttard on 01594 368849.