On Sunday, the church will hold its final service in its 160-year history.

The church was built in 1857, by the Methodists.

It became the Uniting Church some 40-odd years ago, when the Presbyterians and Methodists came together at the site.

The congregation made the mutual decision to close the church at a meeting on March 19.

Congregation chairman John Phelps said the church’s numbers had diminished over the past four or five years, to about 20 currently.

Churchgoer and historian Lexie Young has been attending the church for 57 years. Like many of the church’s numbers, she will join a nearby church – and admits she’ll try a few out first – but said it will be sad to see the church doors close.

“It has been a part of the community, not just for the church but for many groups,” Mrs Young said, referring to the attached community hall that houses activities from evening groups to mahjong meetings.

However, the remaining congregation do not intend to let the church’s community spirit fade away.

“Some people are thinking about meeting up informally once a month, just to be together,” Mr Phelps said.

“Church is not just a faith, it is a collection of people, it is a family, and certainly that is the case here.”

The final service takes place at 2pm on Sunday, May 7, to be led by Reverend Ann Perrin, with preaching from Reverend Brian Cole.

It is not known what will become of the West Barrack Street building.