Good to be back at St Leonard’s
Worshippers return to church damaged by storm
Delight after refurb is completed
The doors of St Leonard’s Parish Church have been opened for the first time in a year – after £500,000 of repair work following storm damage.
High winds ripped large sections of the waterproof covering which was torn from the church’s roof in January 2016.
Water poured into the building, destroying pews, the whole electrical system and flooring in both the upper and lower halls.
There was a massive power cut in the church as the electronics failed – and paint work was ruined.
Church-goers headed to nearby St Leonard’s Primary School for mass as water was cleared and the building stripped bare.
Now, after more than a year of hard work, the church has welcomed parishioners back home.
The original figure estimated for the repairs was £250,000.
However, estates manager Guy Logan reckons the figure now tops £500,000.
He told the News: “There was a lot of work that had to be done that you wouldn’t have been able to see right away.
“The church needed a new kitchen and a new lift as well as the hall repairs.
“Most of this was covered by the insurance claim – but a significant amount was paid for by the church.
“The parishioners seem happy with their new church, though. We only wish we could have got them back in sooner.”
The new-look building still has that fresh paint smell as worshippers get back to their regular routine.
Father Andrew Quinn, who recently moved from Hamilton, was full of praise for the work of his predecessor, Father Gerard Chromy, who was instrumental in the completion of the clean-up.
He is happy to have the chance to start a new era – having grown up in East Kilbride. Fr Quinn said:
“The work has been quite extensive. I’ve been lucky. It’s like opening a new parish.
“Father Chromy has done some great work here. It’s a shame he didn’t get the chance to enjoy it for longer but I’m very grateful for the work he put in.
“The people are delighted to be able to get back. It has worked out well. It’s a fresh start for the church and for me.”
Michael Hartley was one of the first volunteers on the scene to help with the cleanup following the storm.
He said: “When we came in last year it was like a waterfall inside the church.
“The floor was covered, you could have had a swimming pool in the downstairs hall and gone for a paddle.
“Chairs were floating around, it was unbelievable. It’s been completely stripped from the outside in.
“This is brilliant. The school were really good with us – but it’s great to be back.
Fellow churchgoer Joe Gillen added: “The electrics had to be ripped out but the new lights are great.
“So far we’re really happy with the new sound system as well.
“It’s like going into a new church. Father Chromy has done wonders.”
Father Chromy has worked wonders Joe Gillen