The Rev Richard Coles officially opens new facilities at Finedon church
New facilities at St Mary the Virgin Church, Finedon, have been officially opened by the church’s former vicar, the Rev Richard Coles.
Back in March this year St Mary’s Church was delighted to announce that, having obtained a grant of £97,992 from The National Lottery Heritage Fund and donations from other organisations and individuals, they were able to proceed with an ambitious renewal project; a project that includes a servery and kitchen, toilets, ramp for wheelchair access and the creation of a space for educational, musical and social events.
A church spokesman said: “The work is now complete and we held our official opening on Saturday, September 12.
“A very special guest of honour, the Rev Richard Coles, vicar of St Mary’s from 2011 to 2022, cut the ribbon and declared the new facilities well and truly open.
“The opening coincided with the annual three-day flower festival at the church, an event attended by visitors from far and wide.”
About 130 people attended the official opening including the Rev Louise Bishop, Rural Dean, Michael Moore from the Northamptonshire Historic Churches Trust and Edward Lamb, representing one of the donors to this project, the John Warren Foundation.
The spokesman added: “This project will ensure that St Mary’s Church remains viable, inclusive and actively used in the 21st century and beyond, thereby preserving its wonderful heritage.
“The Parish Parochial Council would like to thank everyone involved for their unstinting commitment into bringing the renewal work – a project that was initiated during Mr Coles’ tenure at the church – to a successful conclusion.”
A full list of donors to this renewal project is displayed on a donors’ board within the church.