There was a strong turnout on Monday 13 July for the first public meeting exploring the future of the historic St Benet's Chapel in Lydiate.

The chapel, built in 1792–93, is one of the oldest surviving Roman Catholic chapels in the country. It served the local Catholic community until a new church was built opposite in 1975, after which the original chapel closed. Since 1997, it has been cared for by the Historic Chapels Trust, which carried out significant restoration work before recently transferring the building back to the Archdiocese of Liverpool.

The meeting brought together parishioners, local residents, and heritage enthusiasts to share ideas for the future of the Grade II* listed building. Suggestions included creating a community garden, installing interpretation boards telling the chapel's history, and opening the site during Heritage Open Days.

It was also an opportunity for people to share their own memories of St Benet's. Some recalled attending Mass there before it closed, while others remembered choir practices and parish activities within its historic walls. There was even an unexpected musical moment when parish priest Fr Philip Inch discovered that the chapel's small organ still worked!

While there was great enthusiasm for bringing the building back into community use, attendees also heard about the significant challenges ahead. The chapel requires substantial investment, with full costs still to be determined.

Despite these challenges, the meeting reflected a shared determination to preserve this important part of the archdiocese's heritage. Further discussions and opportunities for community involvement are expected as plans for the chapel continue to develop.