Visitors to a derelict Vange church's cemetery have been reassured about its future.

Those looking after graves at All Saints, in London Road, Vange, were concerned plans were afoot for building works - without the consideration of their feelings.

The church was forced to close down two years ago when it was decided to concentrate worship at the popular nearby St Chad's Church, in Vange.

The graveyard is still being used by dedicated families maintaining their loved ones' places of rest - but there are now plans for offices.

They felt their emotions were being trampled on and that the church's future was being decided without their knowledge.

The Diocese of Chelmsford is looking into alternative uses for the redundant site. It is thought the church - a grade two star listed building - will be turned into offices.

But first, the plan must pass through a pile of red tape.

Planning permission was recently granted by the council for the church's bell to be removed but no plans are being made to do so until conversion work starts.

Albert Charlton, of Claremont Drive, Vange, has been visiting the cemetery for 40 years. He maintains the area surrounding his wife's grave.

Now he feels the people who use All Saints are being gradually pushed away as visiting becomes increasingly difficult.

He said: "Does the diocese really care what happens to this church which is part of Basildon's heritage?

"We are doing all we can to try to keep this church yard for those whose loved ones are buried there. There are plans for this church and they do not appear to include us. It feels like a squeeze is being put on us to abandon the graves by the so-called caring church."

The Rev Philip Banks, press officer for the Bishop of Chelmsford, said: "The proposal is to convert the church to offices.

"There is light at the end of the tunnel. If the building is being used on a daily basis it will stamp out the problems of vandalism and rubbish dumping.

"As this is a church building, nothing can be done without public consultation. The church and cemetery will stay as they are.

"Nothing will happen for at least a year."

Albert - concerned

Picture: LUAN MARSHALL

Converted for the new archive on 19 November 2001. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.