THE second oldest church in Bromsgrove will be closing its doors next month.

The United Reformed Church, which has been serving the community for just over 340 years, is holding its last ever service on Sunday, June 9.

The Windsor Street-based church was originally known as the Independent Church, then Congregational Church, before becoming the United Reformed Church after the union of the Congregational and Presbyterian churches in 1972.

One of the significant dates in the church’s history was 1836, when trees were planted in its graveyard to commemorate Princess Victoria’s visit to Bromsgrove.

In 1968, a memorial stained glass window for craftsman Archibald John Davies was unveiled at the church. This was unusual as congregational churches traditionally had little decoration and plain glass windows.

The window was designed to honour his high standard of craftsmanship and all members of the Bromsgrove Guild.

In 1964, with attendances dwindling and the church suffering financially problems, a vote was held on whether it should close.

The motion was defeated by just one vote and although the church survived, congregations fell further.

In 1971 the Secretary for the Environment included the church in his list of buildings with special architectural or historic interest.

The church is a Grade II listed building, while the hall is Grade III protected.

Nicola Hazleton, church elder, said: “It is really sad to see the second oldest church in Bromsgrove close its doors.

“It is a sign of the times.

“The buildings belong to the Synod and as elders we tend to the church. The buildings become the responsibility of the Synod from June 9.”

The historic last service begins at 10.45am, and everyone is welcome.