A much-loved church in west Norfolk that dates back to the 1200s has been saved for future generations to enjoy – and churchwarden Pam Goddard cannot quite believe the improvement.
St Mary's Church, in Sedgeford, has received a £365,000 makeover, thanks to a £228,000 grant from the Heritage Lottery fund.
The Grade I-listed church, which is one of the largest of the Norfolk Round Tower churches, was on the English Heritage 'at risk' register before the renovation.
But it looks almost new now following major repairs and a modern refurbishment.
Mrs Goddard said: 'The church was closed for six months.
'The south transept roof has been repaired, and work has been done to the south porch and the chancel.
'The whole floor was taken up as it was rotting underneath.
'The south area pews have been removed to make way for a community and exhibition area.
'There's new heating and lighting, with heating on the nave pews, and the old vestry is now toilets and a storage area. Walls have also been replastered and painted.
'The work took six months and was completed on time, which was fantastic. I'm really pleased with it. I know it's a lot of money but it's safeguarded the church for the future.'
Church leaders are planning a summer of celebration, with several exhibitions and tours in the pipeline.
The architect for the project was Denis Tuttle and the contractor was Nigel Coverdale.
Are you celebrating a major refurbishment at a landmark building? Email david.bale2@archant.co.uk
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