THE FIGHT TO SAVE AGECROFT MORTUARY CHAPEL GOES ON

Today saw around 20 people attend the inaugural meeting of the campaign to save the Mortuary Chapel at Agecroft Cemetery in Salford.

Local man, Alan Henry Whitehead who is a passionate supporter of Salford and it's rich heritage has become increasingly alarmed at the number of buildings in Salford which are under threat off demolition or permanent closure and has taken a defiant stance.

The Chapel which was built in 1903 is in admittedly a shocking state after having lain empty for the past 40 years ago, however Alan is adamant that it is not too late for the building to be saved, but admits that it will cost several million pound to do this, money he is convinced that Salford Council do have.

He has posted a video on his Facebook page this week, showing the condition it is in, a home for nesting pigeons, rotting floorboards and joists, plaster crumbling off the walls and gaping holes in the roof leaving it at the mercy of the elements.

However there are still some beautiful stained glass windows left, which have miraculously survived, religious murals painted on the walls as a reminder of it's former use.

Alan's plans are to renovate the Chapel back to it's former use as a functioning Mortuary Chapel, build a conservatory on the side from which visitors to the Cemetery can purchase meals, drinks etc whilst visiting loved one's graves, a flower concession shop, a History heritage Centre, all of which can generate income to help pay for it's upkeep and provide employment to local people.

Local Councillors were invited to, todays meeting, sadly it has clashed with the annual Durham Miners Gala at which they are attending, but some have promised to be there next Saturday to discuss the matter with Alan and concerned supporters of this most worthwhile of causes.

Alan has vowed to be there for the remaining Saturdays with his protest until a satisfactory conclusion can be reached and we wish him well, if you have met the man you will understand his passion to keep the Chapel from further decay and possible demolition.

It would be nice to see Salford's councillors and Mayor showing the same passion and commitment.

Photos: Hilary Curran & Jelena Wilson