A Churches Tsar has been appointed to rescue a number of under-threat places of worship.

Scott Ralph, a former historic buildings surveyor for Brighton and Hove City Council, has been drafted in to ensure the city's churches have a viable future.

Crippled by declining congregations, Brighton and Hove's churches have come under threat in recent years.

In February, The Argus reported that St Peter's Church, dubbed "Brighton's cathedral" was under threat of closure because of small congregations and high maintenance costs.

The problem was reflected across the city.

Now a partnership between the diocese of Chichester with English Heritage could save the day as they are funding the appointment of Mr Ralph, an experienced project officer.

Dr Andy Brown, English Heritage Regional Director for the South East said: "This grant is one of a handful from English Heritage to fund dedicated posts to advise dioceses.

"We are delighted to be helping congregations to help themselves at a time when churches across the region are facing big challenges and an uncertain future.

"We have called on the Government to ensure every diocese has such a post to ensure informed choices can be made about those churches which are too important to lose, those that need repairs and those which might accommodate new uses. The diocese of Chichester is leading the way."

Many church buildings in the city have already undergone changes to reflect the modern needs of church life.

Some have been adapted to a more suitable and much needed community resource. The project officer will help and advise parishes on everything from structural repairs to alternative community use.

This partnership initiative between the Diocese and English Heritage is one of three existing similar roles outside of London.

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