The congregation of a small chapel in north Wales have made a formal appeal over a decision by religious chiefs to close their place of worship.

The doors of Salem Chapel in Llanfair Dyffryn Clwyd in Denbighshire were locked earlier this year after concerns were raised over spiralling running costs.

Worshipers say they have looked after the site

Worshipers - who are said to be devastated by the decision by the Vale of Clwyd Presbytery - have submitted their objections to the closure.

It was estimated that up to �18,000 needed to be spent on refurbishments to the site to meet safety regulations.

Since the closure members of the congregation have been holding independent services in the village.

They claim the fact they have continued to meet shows the strength of feeling against the closure.

Full consultation

Many of the chapel goers have said that not enough was done to explore other options to keep the venue running.

They also claim insufficient notice was given before the final decision to shut the chapel was made.

The Presbytery insists the congregation were fully consulted and there was a democratic vote.

The row has led to a rift within the committee which made the decision.

Chapel upkeep

The secretary of the Presbytery has resigned because he disagreed with the closure

Reverend Morris Morris said he was on the side of the parishioners.

The worshipers have been told they would be welcome at Tabernacle Chapel in Ruthin but many are not prepared to travel.

They argue they kept the chapel building and the cemetery in a tidy condition.

Previously the members raised �2,000 on a redecoration programme.

If the appeal is rejected, Salem Chapel will be sold.