YOU can fully understand the distress of parishioners at Our Lady of Victories in Keighley when told their church is closing.

Some have been attending regularly for the best part of their lives, so it is a massive wrench to be suddenly informed the premises will be no more.

The bishop argues the Church is about its people and not bricks and mortar – a view that has its merits and, no doubt, will be shared by many.

But it shouldn't be forgotten that people are at the centre of this and at the moment, they are hurting.

Many organisations in all areas of life are finding it necessary to 'restructure', and the Church isn't exempt from that.

Whatever the motive – saving money, improving efficiency etc – change is a constant factor in today's society.

And it is very easy for the feelings of individuals to be overlooked in all of this.

It's to be hoped that those worshippers at Our Lady of Victories who currently feel despair won't lose their faith.

Church bosses are keen to paint a positive picture and a combined, stronger parish could indeed bring benefits.

But there are many who will need considerable support during this transitional period.