Flames ravage Grade II-listed Sheffield chapel

Shortly after 3.15am today, firefighters received reports that Loxley Old Church, in Loxley, was on fire.

Three fire engines attended the blaze and extinguished the flames by around 7am.

According to Loxley resident Ron Clayton the chapel was still smoking evening.

Loxley Chapel was built in 1787 and is said to be the oldest building in Loxley.

But since closing in 1993, the Grade II-listed church has slipped into a state of dereliction.

The church, once known as Loxley Methodist Church and Loxley United Reformed Church, has been left in a shocking state of disrepair.

Concerns about its condition has been voiced by residents.

Representations have been made to MP Nick Clegg, Sheffield City Council, English Heritage and the Bishop of Sheffield.

Many of 240 victims of 1864 Great Sheffield Flood are buried in cemetery, which is now wild and overgrown.

The Star published a video in March last year showing the state of the building inside – organ keys smashed to pieces and stack of Bibles and hymn books now strewn across storeroom.