ELLWOOD Methodist Church near Coleford closed its doors for the final time on Sunday.

The last service was led by Rev Heather Upton and Rev Dr James Tebbutt, superintendent of the Gloucestershire Circuit, gave a short address. Congregation members Jean Howard and Ann Rosser sang I Know Who Holds the Future. Roger Tobin, steward and chapel secretary, gave a reading.

As we reported last week, the church has been in use since it was built in 1875. Congregation members are now expected to move to Clements End or Coalway Methodist churches to worship. The future of the building is uncertain.

Rev Tebbutt told the Review: “The church devolves back to the Methodist circuit and we will now give careful consideration to what is best for the community.”

The closure came just a week after local Meth­odists celebrated the re-dedication of Aylburton Methodist Church after an extensive refurbishment.