The Salvation Army is preparing to move out of its citadel on Lord Street, Douglas, before work begins to demolish the building and replace it with a purpose-built facility.

The majority of the charity’s programme will move into temporary premises at the empty Fairfield Primary School for the duration of the works.

The demolition is due to take place sometime in the new year, however it is hoped that it will be up and running at the school on Tynwald Street from Monday, November 20.

Having been based on Lord Street in Douglas for 85 years, the Salvation Army decided to apply for permission to construct a new complex to fit modern day needs.

The application was submitted in February and was approved in April for a worship hall space for more than 100 people, a community service area, a kitchen, a Sunday school, offices and toilets.

Simon Clampton, a captain of the charity, said: 'We’re very excited to get a new building, but there’s a bit of trepidation too.

'Our current citadel doesn’t fit with what we need to do in the 21st century, as we’re wanting to give more space to benefit the community.

'We decided to keep the citadel in the same location as we’ve done some research on government findings and found that it’s in one of the most deprived areas on the island. We want to reassure people that what we do will continue, despite the move.'

Moving into a temporary building comes just before the charity’s busy period, as the Christmas season brings in more people asking for support.

'Last year our Christmas appeal assisted 1,700 people by providing food and toys.

'Some people don’t manage as well as they do for the rest of the year. So we’re doing something similar this year.'

The final service in the present citadel will take place on Sunday at 10.30am with the first service at Fairfield School on November 19 at 10.30am.