MORE than 110 years of history are being removed piece by piece as work takes place to demolish St Mary and St Philip Neri RC Church.

The landmark building, constructed in 1894, has been vacant since the congregation moved to their new church in Belgrave Street in May.

Workmen started conducting surveys in October, preparing for the demolition.

Scaffolding was erected around the building, in Spring Lane, Radcliffe, last month and roof slates are now being removed.

It is hoped that the demolition will be completed by the end of the month. The site will remain derelict until a buyer can be found, with the proceeds of the sale going towards the cost of the new church building.

Father James Manock said: “We don’t believe in leaving churches or selling them because of the association and memories linked to the building.

“The plan was always that it would be demolished and the land sold. Everyone said their final goodbyes when we were celebrating our final mass and going to the new church.

“It still gives you a twinge when you walk past and see it being pulled down though.”