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Family Fights to Save 135-Year-Old Chapel
6 Apr
Summary
- A farmer is fighting to prevent the closure of a historic chapel.
- The chapel has been a part of his family's history for generations.
- His father wishes to have his funeral held in the family church.
A dedicated farmer from Alnwick, Northumberland, is mounting a significant effort to prevent the closure of the Lindisfarne Methodist Church, a cherished institution dating back to 1891. This historic chapel holds profound personal meaning for John Young, whose family played a pivotal role in its construction over 135 years ago. Five generations of his family have worshipped within its walls, and his 90-year-old father expresses a deep desire to have his funeral service held at the church.
Young's family history is intertwined with the chapel's origins, as his ancestor James Young collaborated with station master Theophilus Moor to secure land from the then-MP for Berwick. The first stone was laid on August 3, 1891, with the total cost of construction and furnishings amounting to £709, seven shillings, and four pence. Despite not being a regular churchgoer himself, Young is committed to preserving this legacy.
The church acknowledges its challenges, stating on its website that efforts to engage with the village have been unsuccessful, leading to a review of its role. This situation reflects a broader national trend of declining religious adherence in certain sectors. Young emphasizes the irreplaceable nature of such community assets, fearing that once lost, they can never be recovered.
