Restoration is a ‘shining example’ of how churches can transform
A HISTORIC church in North Yorkshire which has been shrouded in scaffolding for months has been hailed as a “shining example” of how transformation can be achieved for the benefit of both communities and the nation’s heritage.
After a long period of conservation and restoration works, the Church of St John’s opened its doors to villagers in Sharow again this weekend. An open day held yesterday gave residents the chance to see at first hand how conservators have restored stained glass and wall paintings at the same time as new facilities were added.
The Dean of Ripon, John Dobson, who cut the ribbon at the opening ceremony, said: “The Vision Project at St John’s Sharow is a shining example of how the Church’s vision to serve can lead to transformation for both the community and the church’s heritage.
“The success which is now so evident both in and around the church building is a credit to those who have worked very hard to turn the vision into reality.”
The major renovation was made possible thanks to almost £500,000 in Heritage Lottery funding as well as donations from a number of trusts.
Mr Dobson added: “We are grateful to them, and to the charitable, corporate and individual donors without whose support this could not have happened. Long may this church-based vision benefit the life of the whole community.”
The funding allowed for the creation of a car park for the church and nearby school, the construction of a new meeting room, improvements to the existing kitchen and toilets and the installation of disabled access with new lighting.
Three of the church’s stainedglass windows were removed and taken to York for conservation with stunning results, while paintwork was also restored.
The church has been able to employ a heritage learning officer, who led tours of the building during the open day and will lead educational projects.
Visitors were also able to meet the conservators who carried out much of the work, view an exhibition telling the story of the church’s restoration and take part in stained-glass workshops and family activities.
The celebrations drew to a close with an evening service led by the Bishop of Ripon HelenAnn Hartley, which was followed by a reception with live music and refreshments.