THE building known as the "tin church" is to close and it's congregation merged with the Methodist Church, officials have confirmed.

Rumours that the corrugated-iron building on Stade Street was to be demolished, redeveloped or sold had been circulating in Hythe for weeks before Reverend Desmond Sampson made an official announcement at a service last Friday.

But no final decision has been made regarding the future of the church itself.

Mr Sampson said: "St Michael's is going to close – but not yet.

"The Church of England and the Methodist Church signed a covenant years ago, since ratified by both parties, with a view to uniting the two, at a date yet to be arranged.

"Ultimately, there will be only one congregation."

St Michael's is a "daughter" church to St Leonard's, established in 1893 and refurbished 100 years later. It is attended by a regular group of worshippers and used for a variety of other functions.

It is unusual not only in that it is made of metal but because its altar faces south rather than east.

Hythe county councillor Chris Capon said: "This church is unique to Hythe.

"I, like many other local people, will be very sad to see it go but this could well be a sign of the times, as religions are forced to amalgamate."

Mr Sampson said nothing had been decided about the building's future but that all options are being considered.

He said: "What happens to the church is another matter entirely and no one can tell what that might be.

"Whether the building is sold, re-developed or demolished is a decision that will be made in the next few years.

"A lot of rumours have been spread about what's going to happen to it and people often make up what they think is going to happen with no substance.

"The fact is, a number of things are being considered but nothing will happen for the next two to five years – no one is rushing into anything."