Worshippers at an historic church have launched a desperate bid to save it from closure.

They fear St Leonard's in Hove could be lost forever as part of a review of the future of churches in Brighton and Hove.

The site in New Church Road has been used as a place of worship since 1246 and is mentioned in the Domesday Book.

St Leonards has a congregation of 50, is in demand for weddings because of its picturesque porch and has a thriving Scouts and Guides section. It is also the last church in Hove to keep its bells and team of bell ringers while others have replaced them with recorded peels.

However, its future is at risk after the Church of England recommended the number of churches in the city should be cut from 54 to 44.

An initial review recommended St Leonard's should be retained while nearby St Philips Church was placed on the "at risk" list.

The St Leonard's congregation was stunned when a second review reversed that position and recommended it should close instead of St Philips. A report on the findings is with the Bishop of Chichester, the Right Reverend John Hind, who has yet to make a final decision on the closures.

Margaret Lyons, who has worshipped at St Leonard's for 20 years, said: "I think we were a bit complacent because we did not think the church was even at risk.

"We thought we did not have anything to worry about and it was a shock to everyone when the report recommended it should close.

"We are now trying to make as many people as possible aware that Hove could lose this beautiful church forever."

Jenny Cambell, who runs the uniformed youth groups at the church, said she is appalled it could be closed.

Mrs Cambell, who is District Commissioner for the Guides, said: "I have run St Leonard's Guides for nearly 30 years and we have thriving Beavers, Cubs, Scouts, Brownies and Rangers sections.

"When the first report came out St Philips was at risk and there was no mention of St Leonard's.

"Now the second report says we aren't even at risk, we are recommended for closure but we cannot get anyone to explain why.

"I don't think the people of Hove know that St Leonard's could close.

"We need to make them aware then at least I will feel that we have done all that is humanly possible to save it."

The Friends of St Leonard's will hold a meeting at the church next Tuesday at 7pm to boost support for their campaign to save it.

The Rev Stephen Terry, team vicar for St Leonard's and St Philips churches, was away on leave and not available for comment.

A Chichester Diocese spokesman said: "This is part of the on-going review into the future of churches.

"The report is now with the Bishop who will make a final decision in due course.

"A lot of churches may be affected by any final decision but the process is a long and continuing one.

"The Bishop will listen to any comments parishioners may wish to make as part of that process."