A RUNDOWN chapel in Heaton Cemetery could be used for Muslim ceremonies.

Bolton Council's leisure services department has had an approach from the Muslim community to use the derelict building.

The chapel, which dates from around 1880, needs £56,000 of repairs.

But cash-strapped Bolton Council cannot afford the repairs.

The chapel was used for funeral services but in recent years very few have been held.

However, council chiefs are keen for the sandstone building to be brought back into use.

A report presented to the council's development and operations sub committee said that the Muslims have a religious requirement to hold prayers immediately before a burial.

This building would be suitable. However, council chiefs are insisting that only the inside of the building is changed and the outside stays the same.

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