A CHURCH roof nearly fell victim to Storm Emma. 

The roof of Lammack Methodist Church, in Lammack Road, Blackburn, was almost blown apart by the wind after Storm Emma arrived yesterday.

Police officers and fire crews, who arrived early this morning, closed a short section of the road from the church up to the Hare and Hounds pub next door to the premises?

A police spokesman said: "There was concern with the safety of drivers on the road.

"The high winds were worried about the roof and not particularly secure.

"Buses have been diverted."

The church reverend Stuart Smith, who has been the minister of the church for 18 months, said he was 'horrified' when he saw what happened.

"The weather has caused the material roof to peel back.

"It's too windy and dangerous for anyone to try to do anything to sort it.

"The fire service, police and local council have all been supportive.

"The repair to the damage will cost thousands of pounds and we might even have to replace the roof."

Laura Whitaker, the manager of the Hare and Hounds pub, said: "It's a shame because that's our community church.

"Hopefully they get the support they need to get it repaired."