MORE than 100 people descended on South Zeal for the last ever service at Shelley Chapel.

The 151-year-old chapel opened its doors to the parishioners of South Zeal for the final time on Sunday, July 23.

The Rev Liz Singleton explained that the chapel would close as its congregation had declined significantly over the years and that the maintenance of the chapel had become too much for a congregation of less than ten people.

Shelley Chapel is due to be sold after existing as a place of worship since 1866.

She said: ‘Although it was a sad occasion, the final service was a great way to celebrate the chapel and how it has served the people of South Zeal for a century and a half.

‘The chapel was built 151 years ago for a special purpose and we feel that it has fulfilled that purpose.

‘It was a wonderful celebration and I’d be surprised if people didn’t hear singing from other side of the village!

‘The service was also a way of giving thanks to everyone who has worshipped there and to all those who have worked hard to keep the chapel open as a place of worship for the whole community.’

• Pictured are some of the parishioners who attended the last service at the chapel.

Picture by?Paul Hamlyn