A mental health charity is to take on a historic church in Colchester and the community hub that runs there.

Mid and North East Essex MIND has been awarded the lease for Holy Trinity Church in Trinity Street, subject to contract, after being chosen by a panel.

The Grade I-listed Saxon church, parts of which date to around 1000 AD along with 14th, 15th and 19th Century elements, is owned by Colchester Borough Council.

MIND will create a community hub including a café supporting people into volunteering roles and teach employment skills, while reducing social isolation for those with long-term needs.

The church was run by GO4 Enterprises for four-and-a-half years, which also included a café – with the group’s operation now centred around its premises at the Old Heath Recreation Ground.

James McQuiggan, chief executive of MIND, said: “We are extremely pleased to have had our application accepted for the lease, with the intention of creating a successful community hub for those in need.”

In a statement the council panel which awarded the contract said: “We are delighted we have found an organisation that shares our desire to bring this historic building back into use, not only to safeguard its conservation and cultural heritage, but to open its doors to new uses and activities as a community space for years to come.

“The new lease ensures that the Holy Trinity Church, which is such a part of Colchester’s heritage, remains an important part of our future.”