Our building Contractors began on site mid November last year. Close inspection of the areas of concern uncovered that damage to the arch above our organ was far worse than originally anticipated. Therefore within a few weeks work was brought to a halt to allow structural engineers on site to assess and plan for the unexpected problem. Fortunately the structural problems within the arch could be addressed by placing strengthening rods into the masonry.Work has progressed well since, and the contract is nearing completion. The interior of the building and exterior leadwork has been completely redecorated. All four windows have been restored. We had an Archiologist on site while the soakaway was being installed. Fortunately the excavations to accommodate the soak away did not disturb any interments.A book will be available in St Helens Church giving details and photographs of the works undertaken.We are now planning our service of rededication, which will be held at St Helens Church on Sunday 28th April at 10.30 am. More information to follow.
We have at last reached our target amount of £50000 which will allow us to begin restoration work on St Helens Church. We will have our last service on Monday 30th October then the church will close temporarily for approximately three months.We had to apply to Bishop John to be allowed to close the building, and Bishop John has kindly given his permission for temporary closure of the Church from 1st November 2023 until 28th February 2024. This is giving us enough time to complete the works.We had our pre contract planning meeting last Monday and everything is set with the Contractors and Architect to begin on the planned date. As part of the work is due to be done on the arch above the pipe organ we have had to ask our organ builder Andrew to build a protective covering over the organ so work can be carried out safely without causing any damage.It is a very exciting time for us all and we pray for the project.wmwilsonsthelenschurch@gmail.com
Congratulations to Hebe and Max who held their wedding at St Helens ChurchRevd. Wyn Maskell officiated at the service and also sang a solo to the couple with his wonderful tenor voice.The church was beautifully decorated with fresh flowers and seasonal greenery. Every window was decorated with candles bound around with holly and ivy that sparkled and shone out as darkness closed in on the afternoon. The main floral display was a wonderful cascade of flowers near the altar.It was a happy family occasion and we wish them joy as they begin their married life together. With over 200 guests the whole church was bursting with love and happiness.
Our fundraising Christmas carol concert was very well attended. Swinton band's musical director Simon led the evening with a wonderful assortment of carols. Christmas music and film tunes. We also sang Christmas carols accompanied by the band, and by our organist Jonathan Piercy who always manages to get a lovely sound out of our ailing organ. At the interval everyone tucked into home made mince pies and mulled wine, when there was a chance to catch up with friends and acquaintances. Raffle tickets were on sale with prizes that people had kindly donated. It was a very happy and joyful evening. Great relief that there was enough mulled wine for everyone to enjoy.The event was a great success and further boosted our Restoration funds. Thank you to everyone who helped on the night and came along to support us.
