FOR several years, St Chad's Church Tonge Fold was under threat of closure.

Two years ago, the Diocese of Manchester started a consultation about the future of the church and then issued a draft scheme which proposed the closure of the church for worship.

The congregation of St Chad's and many within the local community have been strongly opposed to the closure.

This led to the formation of Team Tonge Fold which was comprised of members of the church and the community.

This group has sought to encourage more use of the church for community purposes.

On Wednesday, November 1, the church commissioners held a public meeting to determine the future of St Chad's.

After representation both for and against the closure, the commissioners decided to reject the draft proposal and keep our church open for worship.

As a congregation, we are delighted at this decision and look forward to working with the local community and the diocese to increase attendance at our church and to promote further community involvement.

Kath Nuttall

PCC Secretary