The church, based at the primary school in Dalby Road, Melton, was set up 30 years ago to serve families in the area.

But its congregation is ageing and numbers have fallen into single figures with just two services a month.

The Reverend Canon Charles Jenkin, rector of St Mary's Parish, said: "It is sad but the Swallowdale Church has been in decline for a number of years so I don't think this will come as a surprise.

"The clergy has been supportive but most people understand there comes a point when you have to ask if it is viable.

"It was an initiative of its time - there were similar schemes at Sherard and St Mary's primary schools - but we have six other churches in the parish and the Ten to Ten family service in the Samworth Centre so no-one will be left without a place to worship."

The church will, however, will round things off in style. The autumn programme will begin with a harvest thanksgiving on September 7 and finish with a Christingle on December 21. The final service will also include a celebration of the life of the church.