THE Teignmouth Corps of the Salvation Army will close after more than 100 years of service to the town and its residents.

A valedictory service to mark the closure will be held on October 18.

The Corps, located on Brunswick Street, has served the local community for 130 years.

However, growing costs associated with maintaining the ageing building and difficulties finding enough volunteers have prompted the Salvation Army to announce its closure, bringing an end to the charitable organisation’s presence in Teignmouth, where it has provided worship, friendship, practical support and a place of welcome for generations.

Major Nigel Byrne, leader of The Salvation Army in Teignmouth, said the decision was ‘a very sad moment’ for everyone connected with the organisation.

The cost of maintaining the Corps’ ageing Brunswick Street building has become an increasing burden, while a lack of volunteers has made it difficult to sustain the level of activity needed to keep the branch operating.

The organisation has faced similar pressures before.

Major Byrne said that 25 years ago, when closure was being considered, six members made a commitment to keep the Corps open.

All six have since died, but their determination helped secure another 25 years of service in the town.

Major Byrne paid tribute to those who had given their time and energy to the Corps over the years.

‘For 130 years, this Corps has sought to serve God and the people of the town, offering practical support, friendship, worship and a place of welcome’, he said.

While the Teignmouth Corps is closing, The Salvation Army’s work will continue in neighbouring communities.

Its ministry in Newton Abbot, in particular, is continuing to flourish.

Existing members in Teignmouth will be supported throughout the closure process and encouraged to continue their worship and fellowship at other Salvation Army churches in the area.

A special Valedictory Meeting will be held at 3.30pm on Sunday, October 18, at the Salvation Army hall in Brunswick Street.

Led by Major Paul Billard, Divisional Commander for the South West, the meeting will mark the end of the Corps’ 130 years in Teignmouth.

Former members, friends, supporters and members of the wider community are invited to attend and reflect on the organisation’s long history in the town.

Major Byrne said he hoped the final gathering would be more than simply a farewell, but an opportunity to celebrate the contribution made by The Salvation Army and the many people who have supported its work over the past 130 years.