VILLAGERS are threatening to boycott a planned community centre if church leaders impose a ban on “non-­Christian” activities, such as yoga.

The Blaenporth Community Association has launched plans to set up a £100,000 community resource at St David’s Church to compensate for what they say are a lack of local facilities.

But locals have been left shocked after the Parochial Church Council ruled that, while pilates would be allowed in the planned centre, yoga would not be, along with other “non-Christian activity”.

In a letter to Aberporth Community Council seeking their support, one resident wrote: “I would like to make you aware of the intended community activity restrictions that have been imposed once St David’s Church, Blaenporth is part-converted into a well-needed community centre.

“I and no doubt some Blaenporth residents are not at all happy with the view the church has on community activities like yoga, tai chi, taekwondo, cash prize bingo and the like. It is supposed to be a community affair where old and young can enjoy a better quality of life.

“I, for one, will not be dictated to as to what activity events are open to me. Therefore, I will not be visiting this establishment for recreational enjoyment until a fair and non-bias community centre is built.”

A Church in Wales spokesman said the PCC is “keen to broaden the use of St David’s Church”, but it will continue to be a place of Christian worship.

“Therefore, it is felt that activities that might be seen to be in conflict with Christian values and belief would not be appropriate”, they added.

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