A CHURCH dating back to the 1800s has been put up for sale after holding its final service.

Birtenshaw Methodist Church closed its doors for the last time after an emotional farewell celebration last month.

And now chartered surveyors Lamb And Swift, working on behalf of the Methodist Church, have put the building and the adjacent Bromley Cross Village Hall out for 'informal tender'.

In its description, Lamb and Swift said: "The properties are located fronting onto Darwen Road in a very well regarded residential area of Bolton.

"Bromley Cross is a suburb of the unparished area of South Turton in the metropolitan borough of Bolton. Historically part of Lancashire, Bromley Cross lies on the southern edge of the West Pennine Moors.

"In 2011, it was noted that Bromley Cross was rated as the fifth best place in Britain to raise a family, taking into account the rates of crime, schooling, amenities and affordable family homes."

The main church hall was built in 1875 of solid brick construction and clad with stone, set beneath a pitched and slated roof covering.

It is described as in a 'usual church-like configuration and specification, with a small boiler room included in the church.

The village hall was constructed in 1888 and includes two small store rooms, a kitchen and canteen.

People or groups interested in purchasing the church have been asked to submit their best and final offers to purchase the property by Monday, October 2.

The closure of the church was announced last year that the building and the would close.

The trust responsible for the church said it was a result of a dwindling congregation size and lack of people to carry out jobs.

Following the closing service on Sunday, July 16, trustee Keith Whitter said: "The whole thing was a wave of emotion but everyone thought it was fitting and it reflected what we tried to do over the years.

"Everyone was glad they were there and one or two did not want to go, understandably. It was nice, but the future starts now."

More information on the sale can be found at lambandswift.com