Church to close its doors after more than two centuries

A 240-year-old village church is to close its doors to worshippers when its priest leaves later this year.

- by Jamie Lopez

Brindle St Joseph's, in Hoghton, will continue until the summer but then parishioners will be advised to attend alternative churches such as St Bede's. Clayton Green and St Chad's.

The Grade-II listed Catholic church dates back to 1786 and, after two centuries of hosting weddings, funerals and other services, its future use is now unclear but is to be decided by the trustees of the abbot and Ampleforth Abbey.

As well as the main church, the other buildings are currently used for a wide range of community activities including Scouts, music, dancing, sports and parenting groups.