Walsall war memorial is in need of new home
A run-down former church in Walsall has been sold, it was revealed today, sparking a search for a new home for one of its war memorials.
St Andrew's Church, in Darlaston, closed in 2009 when the congregation became too small to cover the running costs. It was deemed to be in need of £250,000 repairs.
But it is home to two memorials, one for each of the world wars, and calls have been made for them to be protected.
The vicar of St Bartholomew's Church, in Wednesbury, which is the parent church for the former St Andrew's today revealed the war memorials would be preserved.
The Second World War memorial is in the form of a brass plaque and this has already been relocated to St Bartholomew's in Little Hill.
But a new home is being sought for the First World War memorial, which is larger and is built into the fabric of the building.
Mr Vasby-Burnie, who has been vicar of the parish since June 2010, said: "We have retained ownership of the war memorials. The new owner will be giving the Second World War memorial to us in due course." He added: "I have met with many people with fond memories of St Andrew's Church. Many people felt a sense of loss when it closed for worship and no doubt will feel the same when they hear about its sale.
"Opportunities to keep the building as a place of worship did not prove possible. It has now been sold." It is not yet known what the building will be used for.
