VILLAGERS have risen up in anger after they were told their church would close during the winter months - because it is too cold.

The standing committee of the parochial church council, the Archdeacon of Southend and the Bishop of Bradwell agreed that St Nicholas Church in Tillingham will close from December to March.

Chelmsford Diocese, which holds jurisdiction for the church, said there were three reasons for the church’s closure.

The electrical wiring is in need of upgrading while the calor gas heaters, used previously, now pose a fire risk according to the church’s insurer.

Thirdly, during the winter months the church will not meet the minimum temperature needed for public buildings, set out in law.

During those months, the head teacher of St Nicholas’ School has agreed to allow the school to be used as an alternative but it is not licensed to hold weddings, though it can host christenings.

St James’ Church in Dengie could also step in to help if it is needed.

The inside of the church will not escape the change either.

The ancient pews, which have been a feature of the church for centuries, could also be removed after the decision was approved by the church council and Diocesan Advisory Committee.

But a number of patrons have grouped together to oppose the move and will plead their case on Friday, September 3.

Chief bell-ringer at the church, Tony Eaton disagreed with the diocese’s reasons.

He said: “I don’t understand why the church will be closing full stop.

“They’re talking about closing the church because it’s cold for a few hours on a Sunday morning but what about on a Wednesday evening when we go in to ring the bells, we don’t need heat then.”

The timescale means that Tillingham residents will be silent on the traditional bell-ringing days of Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.