BEING a churchgoer will take on a completely new meaning for the new owner of an historic building on Foulness Island.

Half of St Mary's Church, which dates back to 1846, has been converted into an apartment, which will be sold at auction next week.

Southend-based estate agents Dedman Gray are marketing the unique building, which has a guide price of £100,000, to a celebrity looking for a quiet retreat, a writer, or recluse.

Peter Reeve, who lives with his wife May in the rectory next door to the apartment, in Church End, said: “The church is an important part of our heritage and it had been considered for demolition before we got planning permission, meaning it would have been lost forever.

“I think it would suit a recluse or someone who wants total privacy because the security on Foulness is second to none. It is the definition of an ‘exclusive’ property.

“There has been a lot of interest because it is so unique. It’s about 50 miles from London and is a whole different world.”

QinetiQ runs the island on behalf of the Ministry of Defence, and people who want to go onto Foulness can only do so with a permit.

It is also a designated site of scientific interest because of its primitive wildlife, making the former church the perfect home for a science enthusiast, or an artist looking for inspiration.

Mike Gray, from the estate agents, said this is the first building he has been asked to sell on Foulness, which is home to 151 people.

He added: "This property may suit a recluse, celebrity, or someone just looking for a place to stay to get away from the rat race.

“Foulness only has a population of 151 according to the 2011 census, and access to the island is restricted, with all visitors having to pass through a security check point, with no access to the public other than on pre-set visitor days in the summer. It is fair to say this would surely be an excellent location for someone to relax and unwind away from prying eyes.

"With Southend Airport ten miles away, providing access to Europe, plus a range of bars, restaurants, and shops at nearby towns along the estuary, this really is a unique opportunity to create a really special property in what is questionably one of the most beautiful and tranquil parts of Essex.”

Leaseholder Mr Reeve will retain the bottom floor of the church, which he hopes will be used by the community.

The one-bedroom apartment is located on the first floor.

It will be auctioned off next Wednesday.