AN OUTDOOR event, from 2pm this Sunday, marks the closure for regular public worship of St John the Evangelist Church in Coleford, before the building goes on the market.

Natalie Fenner, chur­ches officer for the Diocese of Gloucester, told the Review: “Once the closure is formalised, the building enters a ‘use seeking period’.  During this time the building is overseen by the diocese and will be put on the market using a local agent. 

“We will make information on the church’s history and condition available to potential buyers, and anyone expressing an interest will be asked to submit a business plan showing how they intend to give the building a sustainable future. 

“Submissions will be considered by both the diocese and church commissioners and the option which is considered to be most sustainable and has the widest benefit, will be recommended.”

Rev Sarah Bick added: “The official closure date for worship is this Friday.

“The congregation now holds Church of England worship at St Margaret Mary Church, High Nash, Coleford most Sundays at 9.30am, thanks to the hospitality of the Roman Catholic Church.   

“The Parochial Church Council, which is organising Sunday’s event, is also hoping to obtain a Heritage Lottery Fund grant to gather the history and personal memories of St John’s Church. We feel it is important not to lose the memories of what St John’s has meant to our community.

“The event on Sunday will conclude with a simple service of thanksgiving and remembrance, and will be time for people to talk and be listened to, to ask questions, and to light a candle and sign a book if they wish to.”