A series of events are being planned to herald a new beginning at St Andrew’s Church, Bainton.
The programme will herald a new era for the ‘Cathedral of the Wolds’ as the work on the magnificent building edges ever closer to completion.
The spectacular pipe organ at St Andrew’s is now fully restored and this latest phase brings an end to the long programme of restoration of the church.
To mark the rebirth of the church, members of the congregation have organised a number of events, starting next month.
They include:
A talk about the history of the church and organ on Friday 15 April at 7.30pm. This will be followed by a permanent exhibition covering the restoration of the organ and its history.
A talk on how St Andrew’s Church was built on Friday 20 May at 7.30pm.
On Sunday 22 May, a concert will be held at 4pm and will feature the Choir of Nafferton Primary School.
On Friday 17 June, there will be a talk about houses in the Bainton area and the people who lived in them. This will start at 7.30pm.
There will be a very special orchestral concert with Sale Chamber Orchestra, conducted by Richard Howarth, on Sunday 19 June at 4pm.
The last talk is ‘How Bainton village changed from the 17th Century to the 21st Century’.
This event is held on Friday 15 July and starts at 7.30pm.
Churchwarden Cathy Otton-Goulder said: “The building is for the benefit and use of the entire community as well as for the church’s congregation.
“Anyone interested in any of the events are welcome to come along and join the fun.
“Much of the roof and the stonework has been replaced or repaired during the renovation. The outhouse has been converted to provide two lavatories (one disabled) and there’s washing-up facilities and storage. There’s also wheelchair-friendly access.
“The west end of the church has been cleared of pews and the floor pamments replaced where damaged.
“Comfortable upholstered chairs and tables have been provided and set out for refreshments and the area of the tower below the windowsill of the great west window has been converted to a self-contained room. This is perfect for a wide range of uses.
“The church is now heated 24 hours a day seven days a week at not less than 8oC. This has cured many of the damp problems and removed much of the previous dank feel.”
For more details go to Cathy Otton-Goulder 01377 217100 or Dave Walford on 01377 217283.