Sheringham church to close for vital refurbishment
Churchwarden David Rivett in St Peter's Church aet Shernigham, and scaffolding around the organ, which will be protected with polythene sheeting affixed to batons while work is carried out. Picture; KAREN BETHELL - Credit: Archant
A seaside church will be closed for up to two months from this week for the final phase of a £150,000-plus renovation programme.
The Sheringham Parish Church scheme is aimed at protecting the 117-year-old St Peter's building from the elements.
Services will be held in the church hall until work is finished on the three-year scheme, which has been paid for with a legacy from former verger Malcolm Harrison.
Churchwarden David Rivett, who is chairman of St Peter's fabric committee, said that, because the final phase of the project involved putting up scaffolding at both ends of the church, it was necessary to close the building until work is completed.
He said: 'St Peter's is a beautiful, community church which is not just for services; it is a meeting place and a place for concerts and events and it is important that we preserve the building for the future.'
The church organ, whose pipes stretch up to 25ft high in places, will be protected with polythene sheeting fixed to batons, before crumbling, dried-out plaster is stripped off and sealed with limewash.
Norwich-based church renovation specialists G F Atthowe began work on the project in 2011.
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It is hoped the repairs will be finished in six weeks, weather permitting.
Church activities, including the Noah's Ark parent and toddler group and Little Stars children's church group will continue in the church hall, which will also host three services on Sundays, as well as an 11am communion on Thursdays.
Do you have a church renovation story? Email karen.bethell@archant.co.uk.
