Villagers given six months to save Devon church

St Petroc's church could be sold or even demolished

Villagers have been given six months to come up with a viable plan to save their parish church.

St Petroc's in Petrockstowe, Devon, closed as a place of worship in 2023 after it had fallen into disrepair and the congregation dwindled.

Church authorities said work to make it watertight could cost £400,000.

But they have agreed to delay putting the church up for sale, in the hope the local community can find a way of saving it.

About 60 local residents who attended a village meeting were in favour of saving the church for the community, said the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

A working group has been set up to look into grant funding and alternative uses.

'Risk of demolition'

Local heritage adviser Emily Wapshott said: "Whilst built to serve, it is now closed and languishing empty, with the risk of demolition.

"This area is sorely lacking in local cultural centres, amenities like post offices, as well as work opportunities for young people.

"With a newly established working party and bold future vision, this building could be adapted to once again provide for its community."

The church closed following widespread public consultation because the Parochial Church Council (PCC) felt it was no longer sustainable in its current form.

It added many attempts had been made to get community support and funding.

"As a charity, we would be delighted if a sustainable future use can be found for St Petroc's which would benefit the whole community," said a PCC spokesperson.