THE saying ‘take a pew’ could be nearer to the truth in some homes with a church offering householders the chance to buy their own.

St James’ Church, in Welland, near Malvern, has come up with an ingenious way to re-use its unwanted seating by launching the Take-A-Pew project.

Worcestershire residents can now own a 133-year-old piece of church furniture in the first scheme of its kind nationally.

David Richardson, church warden, explained the pews, the same age as the Victorian building, have had to make way because of the changing use of the church.

He said: “Obviously with fewer people using it as a church we’ve opened it more to the community so we’re bringing in 150 chairs. If we could have kept the pews then we would but as it is we want them to be used and saved.”

He added the church had only gone ahead after approval from the Diocese of Worcester, the church’s parochial council and Welland Parish Council.

There are 28 pews currently awaiting new homes ranging from 6ft up to 12 ft, with the price of an unaltered Canadian Pine piece starting at £80.

The church sold off several six ft pews in 2004 but has this time teamed up with charity EnviroAbility – which has carpentry staff, the Diocese of Hereford and other partners to adjust and distribute the lengths.

EnviroAbility is administering the scheme employing disabled and disadvantaged people to help with the woodwork and helping with deliveries.

Martin Neicho, of the charity, said: “This is a one-off opportunity because when the St James’ pews are gone they are gone forever.”

Money from the sell-off will go to support the church and to charity to support disadvantaged people. To find out more call 01989 760913 or visit enviroability.org.uk