An historic church in Midlothian is set to be sold off as parishes are merged to cope with dwindling congregations.
Built in 1742, Newton Parish Church became a focal point and easily recognisable landmark in the Danderhall mining village.
Many locals reacted with shock and disappointment as news of the closure spread but Church of Scotland bosses told Edinburgh Live the sale is "necessary".
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Villagers expressed concern at the loss of a wedding and funeral venue in the community but many parishioners backed the decision soaring running bills and falling congregations.
The church is described as a T-plan structure, with a small bellcote and an entrance porch in one of the gables and round-arched windows.
Legend has it that the graveyard was targeted by 19th Century grave robbers, and later murderers, Burke and Hare with a night watchman appointed to protect the newly buried.
The church will remain open until the new year, with events planned to help celebrate its history and connection to the local community.
A Church of Scotland spokesman said: “The Presbytery of Lothian is in the process of working through a five-year mission plan to allocate limited resources to parishes and congregations.
“It is a roadmap to the future because change is necessary in order to deliver sustainable and realistic new expressions of ministry and ensure well equipped spaces are in the right places to effectively deliver Jesus’ call to mission and discipleship and serve the people in our communities.
“Under this plan, Newton parish, which covers Danderhall, Shawfair and some neighbouring villages will unite with St John’s and Kings Park Church in Dalkeith to form Dalkeith: St John's and Newton Parish Church.
“This change has the support of the local congregations and will happen sometime early in 2023.
“The new congregation will continue to use the church hall in Danderhall as their base for activities and services in Newton parish and the church building will be eventually sold.
“The services and events planned for January 8 will give people an opportunity to celebrate the work and witness of the church in Newton prior to a union taking place, with many positive things to look back on and remember.”
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