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A Gloucestershire homelessness charity is facing being homeless itself when its premises close for refurbishment.

A number of groups, including The Marah Trust, will have to find temporary homes whilst renovation work is carried out at Stroud Congregational Church.

It is not known how long the work will take but it could last several months.

The Christian charity, which has been based in the church for seven years, is now seeking alternative accommodation that would suit the service it offers.

Liz Hudson, from the church, said she hoped the work would begin in the Autumn:

"We have to bring the building up to modern standards - it needs a lot of renovation and refurbishment."

Money will be spent modernising the Bedford Road building to include a new electric system, heating, toilets, kitchens and a complete redecoration.

'Complex issue'

Mrs Hudson said she fully understood the difficulties facing the church-based groups but the work had to be done.

Marah trustee Bryan Court said the charity understood that it was a complex issue and now needed to concentrate on finding a new base.

"It is difficult to find somewhere that will accept the sort of work we do and the premises that can accommodate that group of people," he said.

The Marah Trust was established in Stroud in 1991 to help the marginalised in Stroud by feeding, clothing and befriending them.