Memorabilia from an Accrington Pals Chapel which has been forced to shut could go on permanent display in the town's art gallery.

The famous chapel, which housed flags, books and pictures of the Pals was dedicated to the heroism of the local soldiers who fought in the First World War.

It is located in St John's Church, in Addison Street, Accrington, which has shut because of electrical problems and renovation work which could cost about £200,000.

The Rev Ian Robertson said the artifacts will now go on temporary display at Haworth Art Gallery in Manchester Road, Accrington.

And he said that it is hoped that the exhibition could form a permanent home for the items.

He said: "The memorabilia is going to the Haworth Art Gallery and will be on display in a couple of months.

"There are no firm long-term plans but the gallery would be a fitting place to display such a vital piece of Accrington's history."

St John's Church has been plagued by a long-running series of problems and was forced to close temporarily last month.

That was made permanent earlier this week after a meeting of the church council. The church did not gain a certificate of worthiness, which is required every five years due to the poor state of the electrics at the site.

A plan which may involve worshippers visiting different churches each week is being considered.

Each Sunday about 20 people attended the early morning Holy Communion service at St John's and more than 100 people went to the main morning service.

At a meeting of the church council, members voted in favour of permanently closing the building. The church has no financial reserves to fund repairs.

A final service is planned for July 21 at 11 am which will either be held in St John's church grounds or at St Augustine's church, in Huncoat.