AN HISTORIC church which houses a famous chapel dedicated to the Accrington Pals has been forced to close.
St John's Church, Addison Street, Accrington, shut last month because of electrical problems that could cost around £20,000 to repair.
The 143-year-old building failed a safety inspection and the temporary closure has now been made permanent because leaders can't find the money to pay for the work.
Officers at the church are now looking for new premises for worshippers as well as a new home for the Accrington Pals' Chapel, which is dedicated to the heroism of the local soldiers who fought in the First World War.
The church did not gain a certificate of worthiness, which is required every five years, because of the poor state of the electrics at the site.
The Rev Ian Robertson said the decision had been greeted with sadness by church members.
He said: "This has been a difficult decision to make, but I am most impressed and encouraged by the way many members of the church council have begun to cope with the need for a new vision for the church in Accrington.
"There are real signs of hope for the whole community in Accrington.
"The future of the Pals' Chapel will be central to our thoughts and prayers in our planning for the future."
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