THE historic Parish Church of St Cuthbert in Wells is showing signs of its age.
“We have just completed some urgent masonry repairs high up on the south wall and windows at a cost of more than £20,000,” said Churchwarden Phil Kitcher.
“Next, we need to replace the 60-year-old lighting system following failed electrical tests.”
The new lighting system will be a flexible low energy system meeting current regulations – a costly once-in-a-generation project.
It is designed to complement the medieval interior of this Grade I listed building and enhance the architectural features and treasures of the church to good effect, and will provide lighting for services, concerts, and other events.
“Temporary lighting has been strapped to the pillars and powered from standard 13A sockets to keep the church open through the winter, but we need to move the project along quickly,” said Mr Kitcher.
“St Cuthbert’s is the Civic Church of Wells, and besides regular church services, hosts important events like the city’s Remembrance Day service and is one of the tourist attractions of Wells regularly attracting visitors from more than 40 countries.
“This is where we need your help. Projects like this are expensive and we need assistance to raise a further £70,000 of the £110,000 cost.
“If you appreciate St Cuthbert’s Church, are you able to make a donation to the lighting fund?”
The City of Wells Lions have just donated £500 to the project. Churchwarden Antonia Gwynn said: “We are very grateful to the Lions for contributing so generously to our Let There be Light campaign. It’s a big challenge to raise the funds to replace and improve the lighting in our glorious church. It is especially lovely to know that we have the support of the community of Wells.”
Further donations can be made via the Parish Office in St Cuthbert’s Church, or follow the link https://givealittle.co/c/2xqKL46MKiP8Hih JZJamAP