ST MARY'S CHURCH, SHREWSBURY

That this House notes with concern the decision by the Churches Conservation Trust to downgrade the position of custodian to St Mary's Church in Shrewsbury to that of part-time; further notes that this position makes the custodian responsible for four other churches spread over a very large geographical area; further notes that St Mary's Church is recognised as one of the finest and most important redundant parish churches in the country by the Church Conservation Trust; recognises the time and effort put into maintaining the church by the local volunteers who also ensure that around 25 concerts take place in the church every year to help raise vital funds for the upkeep of this historic tourist attraction in the centre of Shrewsbury; and urges the Conservation Trust to provide for a full-time custodian of the church to ensure that it is protected and cared for, and to preserve it for future generations.