Rebuild my Church, which as you can see, is falling to ruin

The British government is more interested in saving English Catholic churches than are the English Catholic bishops.

The Archdiocese of Liverpool tried to have St Marie's demolished last year despite protests from local residents and the local council.

It was saved at the eleventh hour after being designated as a Grade II listed building, but has remained closed and now faces falling into disrepair.

"The Archdiocese is refusing to talk to us about their decision and seems determined to ensure that no-one can use it if they can't demolish it," he said.

"With so many churches struggling on in the face of dwindling congregations and punitive maintenance costs, it's particularly frustrating to see a church with an enthusiastic community around it which is forbidden to use the building."