Repair Grants for Places of Worship
St Andrews Church, which is closely connected with the Wesley family and Methodism, is Grade I listed. The concrete floor and plastic membrane were causing damp to be forced up into the walls of the church. This floor was removed, underfloor heating installed and a new locally-sourced ‘breathable’ limestone floor put in its place. The clock face, windows, monuments and furnishings in the church were also conserved.
The new ringers’ gallery is now a more pleasant place for people to practice in, and the church is developing its own team of ringers. Concerts are held, with choirs using the gallery. The ground floor area, under the tower, is a heritage room, which contains displays about the history and importance of the church, including an interactive recording with eight themes.
Practical facilities were updated, including a kitchen and toilets, which enabled local groups to use the heritage room for meetings and activities. The pews were replaced with flexible seating, and the font was moved. This means the church can be used for concerts and talks, which often attract audiences of more than 70 people.