Following the close of the consultation period for St Josephs' Church at Hogton/Brindle, Archbishop John Sherrington has said: “I wanted to express my gratitude to the parishioners and local community of the parish of Saint Joseph at Hoghton/Brindle who submitted their views regarding the consultation concerning the pastoral and spiritual provision for the parish.

“As previously mentioned in this process, enabling parishioners to communicate their own views is an essential part of the consultation.

“The consultation has concluded, we have received over 40 submissions which will be carefully read and considered. Prior to the formulation of any decision, I will consult once more with the Council of Priests and provide a further update as soon as I am in a position to do so.”