'Don’t fix it if it isn't broken'.

That was the opinion of the majority of people who attended a public meeting at Ballasalla Church Hall last night.

Held to discuss proposals to change the way the Anglican Church operates in the Isle of Man, the main focus was on plans to transfer Malew Church into Castletown parish and combining Santon with Ballasalla and St Mark's.

Although areas of the report were welcomed, it was felt nothing would be gained by moving the boundaries, although it was also agreed it was mainly the agricultural parishioners who were opposed to the changes.

Plans to encourage younger people to attend and get involved with the church were unanimously endorsed and it was felt the lack of interest from younger people was not helped by a reduction and change in school assemblies.

As for encouraging involvement by teenagers, the Young Farmers Federation was cited as a good example of allowing young people to organise events themselves.

It's hoped Bishop Robert will be invited to discuss the proposals at a future public meeting.