ORGANISATIONS are being invited to express their interest in running an historic church.

Holy Trinity Church, in Trinity Street, Colchester, was being run by GO4 Enterprises - a social enterprise which aims to help homeless and marginalised people back into work and training.

But the group moved out in September citing “commercial considerations, revenue and cash flow projections” and warned potential new tenants would need to make a substantial commitment to improving the building.

Now Colchester Council bosses are asking anyone interested in taking on the church to make their feelings known.

Portfolio holder for resources Mark Cory (Lib Dem) said he wanted to find a group to secure the building’s future.

He said: “I would urge any organisation that shares our desire to find a new community use for Holy Trinity Church and breathe new life into the building to register their interest before the November 10 deadline.

“We hope eventually to work with a new tenant who is able to provide exciting new facilities and ensure that this wonderful iconic building, which is such a part of our history, remains an important part of our future.”

According to council documents, the authority is willing to lease the property for up to 25 years at a peppercorn rent, but are unwilling to pay for any upgrades or maintenance which the church desperately requires.

No commercial bodies can take on the building because the church is subject to a restrictive covenant which confines use for community purposes or as a museum.

The church, which is one of the oldest buildings in Colchester, has parts which date back to the year 1,000 AD.

Other features were added in the 14th, 15th and 19th centuries and has been handed Grade 1 Listed status.

Culture boss Tim Young (Lab) is hoping a range of new people will be able to enjoy the church facilities.

He said: “It is vitally important organisations have an opportunity to bring this historic landmark building back into use, not only to safeguard its conservation and cultural heritage, but to open its doors to new uses and activities as a community space for years to come.”

All informal expressions of interest for the church must be submitted no later than 5pm on November 10 to fay.mathers@colchester.gov.uk.

For more details visit colchester.gov.uk/communitybuildings.