Reordering of the
Church
Plans for the reordering and
refurbishment of the interior of the Church were first displayed to
the public at a meeting at the Village Hall on September 23rd 1996.
The first phase of the scheme
involved the complete re-wiring of the building, the installation of
spotlights in the sanctuary and new lights in the nave and under the
gallery. The heating system was renewed with all pews having heaters
fitted beneath them. At the same time, a sound system and an induction
loop were installed, enabling those with hearing difficulties to take
greater part in the services. The church had to be closed for several
weeks while this work took place, with normal services being conducted
at the Village Hall during November 1996.
The second phase involved the
removal of some of the pews, opening up the head of the main seating
area, removing the priest's stall from the pulpit, extending the steps
and moving the altar and altar rail forward. At the back, the medieval
font was moved forward, some pews removed and a new bookcase and
storage area installed inside the main door, thus freeing the back pew
for seating and improving access for wheelchairs and prams. The area
under the gallery where pews were removed was carpeted, providing an
ideal setting for meetings and a suitable space for children.
These changes have made the use of
the church more flexible and more suited to modern needs whilst
retaining its essential character.
Much research was carried out before
the altar was moved and the floor tiles were found to have been made
in Worcester by Worcester Royal Porcelain and supplied on an invoice
dated January 7th 1844. The area under the stone Altar was strengthened to provide a sound foundation and during this operation
the outer vault of Herbert Brace Powell was uncovered, it was
photographed and reinstated.
These works took place during April,
May and June 1997, with the Village Hall again being used as a temporary
'Church' when necessary. The Church finally reopened on Sunday July
6th after the final phase of work the redecoration, was completed.
The
cost of the project was some £37,000.