People with family graves in the grounds of the Congregational Church in Bromyard are being invited to claim the old gravestones.

The gravestones and memorials, most of which date back to the 1800s, are due to be moved when the chapel is renovated.

Anyone who believes they have relatives buried there can check the photographic record of the headstones, 18 in total, which are held by the Bromyard and District Local History Society.

If they can establish a family link they will be able to view the headstones at the church in Sherford Street by arrangement with the owners, the charity Preservation. Headstones can then be removed if families wish.

Any gravestone not claimed by November 30 will be disposed of by order of the owners.

The building, which dates back to 1701, is believed to be the first congregational chapel ever built and once had a thriving congregation.

Jennifer Weale, of the history society, said the 1851 census showed evening services attracted congregations of more than 100, while morning and afternoon services attracted between 30 and 50.

The building fell into disrepair after closing sometime in the 1970s.

Preservation has plans for the renovation and alteration of the building and its conversion to housing.

Anyone wanting to view the record of gravestones should contact the history society in Sherford Street. Opening times are Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays 10am-12.30pm and 2pm-4.30pm.