A GOLDEN Valley church which has been left vacant for almost four years will be turned into a health and wellbeing centre.

Ewyas Harold Group Parish Council has bought St John Kemble, a former Catholic Church, in the centre of the village which closed in 2011.

Residents said they would like to acquire the site for community use in the parish plan in 2012.

The parish council successfully bid for the site when it came up for sale and it is now listed as an "asset of community value".

Councillors will now work with the community on plans to develop the health centre.

Councillor Graham Powell, local ward member for Golden Valley South and cabinet member for health and wellbeing, said: "Keeping people happy, safe and active has a huge benefit on their health and wellbeing and having a local centre such as this to provide additional services alongside comprehensive information, advice and guidance has to be a positive step forward."

Funds will now need to be raised and grants acquired in order to make the building fit for purpose.

If you would like to get involved, or help in any way with the project, contact the parish clerk, Carla Boyles on 01432 271209 or clerk@ewyasharoldgpc.org.uk