£300,000 makeover for church honouring TV creator

A CHURCH with stained glass windows dedicated to the inventor of television and a former British prime minister is undergoing a near £300,000 makeover.

Work is already under way at the B-listed Helensburgh Parish Church following awards of £190,000 from the Heritage Lottery Fund and Historic Environment Scotland.

Located in the Clydeside town’s Colquhoun Square and one of its most prominent buildings, the early Victorian church has suffered in recent years with restoration a pressing priority.

Inside the church, damaged and uneven stones in the vestibule floor will be replaced and some electrical works will take place, as well as works on doors.

A number of the stained glass windows have been removed for restoration. Among the church’s collection is one commemorating former prime minister Bonar Law and another television inventor John Logie Baird.

Research will also be carried out into all those honoured in the stained glass windows in the church, shedding light on the social history of Helensburgh.

Reverend David T Young, minister of Helensburgh Parish Church, said: “The restoration work currently taking place, together with the new church halls, will ensure that members of the Church of Scotland in Helensburgh will have an appropriate place for worship for many years to come.

“There will also be improved heritage information, including audio-visual material and via the church’s website, new open days and tours, with the involvement of schoolchildren and volunteer guides.”