A popular church in Marlborough has just gone on the market - and it has sparked some mixed reaction from locals.

It was announced earlier this year that Christchurch Methodist Church on New Road was to be sold, as it had become "a burden".

It was then registered as an Asset of Community Value back in June, giving the community the chance to save the much-used meeting space.

Despite this, it is now listed by the estate agents Strakers and is being sold for offers of around £450,000.

It has caused quite the stir within the community Facebook group, Marlborough Noticeboard.

One person said: ‘What a shame. I used to help with the foodbank here before covid and lockdowns.'

The Wiltshire Gazette and Herald: Christchurch in Marlborough. Photo: Strakers.Christchurch in Marlborough. Photo: Strakers.

"So many people dropped in for help and support, where will those people go? For some it was food boxes, some advice and for others it was a place to have some company with a hot cup of tea and a biscuit in the warm.

"I used to love hearing the organist in from time-to-time practicing. This is so sad for the town."

Another person said: "This makes me so sad, so many memories as a child going to Sunday school, playgroup, harvest festivals, my beloved grandparents who loved and cherished there time at this church."

Someone else said: "What a great shame."

What does it look like on the inside?

The potential buyer(s) will be able to purchase the space on two floors with accommodation arranged around a central reception ‘hub’; each level has an element of independence with its own access at street level.

The two main elements include the Church, an open-vaulted building with a gallery at one end and; The Wesley Hall, an older part of the building which has its own entrance off Oxford Street.

There are also ancillary rooms, kitchen facilities and toilets on each floor.

A spokesperson for Straker’s said: "The property occupies a prominent position on Marlborough’s main thoroughfare, at the eastern end of the High Street. Marlborough is a popular town noted for its wide High Street and the College.

"The town caters for most day to day requirements, including schooling for all ages, and it is well located with good road connections to the neighbouring larger towns; including Swindon, Newbury, Bath and Salisbury. 

"The M4 motorway (J15, to the north) also provides fast road access to London and the West Country."