Three Catholic councillors concerned about a mural want to move it from an abandoned church to Gallery Oldham.

The artwork, designed in 1955 by George Mayer-Marton, shows the crucifixion and sits above the altar of the Church of the Holy Rosary on Fir Tree Avenue.

Recently, the mural was listed after a campaign led by Mayer-Marton's great nephew, Nick Braithwaite, with Heritage Minister Nigel Huddleston from the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport describing it as 'one-of-a-kind' and 'stunning'.

But Saddleworth's Cllr Luke Lancaster and Cllr Max Woodvine, plus Tameside's Cllr Dan Costello, think additional action is needed in light of a revelation by the Diocese of Salford that the artwork was vandalised, causing 'a small amount of damage'.

The trio wrote to the Bishop of Salford and Oldham Council to suggest a move to Gallery Oldham in the town centre.

Their letter reads: "Historic England highlighted the importance of this mural and asked that steps are taken to ensure its survival urgently. Therefore we ask you to cooperate in protecting and preserving this important and unique piece of our heritage.

"Please can we meet to discuss what steps we can take as a diocese and council to ensure that this mural is enjoyed by people of all faiths and of none for years to come? Gallery Oldham currently exhibits religious artworks so perhaps this mural could find its ‘forever home’ there.

The Oldham Times understands the Diocese of Salford and Oldham Council agreed to a meeting with the councillors.

A spokesperson for the Diocese of Salford said: "We thank the councillors for their interest in the mural and we look forward to meeting with them and council leaders soon to discuss their proposal further. We remain committed to preserving this important piece of work and we are working with all interested parties to find the best option to respect the mosaic and preserve its heritage for future generations to enjoy.

"Despite the security measures put in place to secure the building we have in recent weeks been subject to some anti-social behaviour and a small amount of damage has taken place. Additional security measures are now in place and are being reviewed daily."

The Oldham Times asked Oldham Council for a comment.