Doors to open on refitted Bourton church

The newly reordered St Lawrence’s in Bourton on the Water will be reopened on Thursday 28 September after six months of building work.

The church community are inviting everyone for a ‘Come and See’ weekend, full of activities to give everyone a chance to explore what’s new in the building. There have been a host of changes made since work began in February. A small meeting room and a staircase to a balcony now provide additional space. There are improved toilet, kitchen and storage facilities. The church now has underfloor heating and pews have been removed from the north aisle to allow space for seating, events, exhibitions and refreshments. There are also new glass doors giving a stunning view to the high altar.

Michelle Porter-Babbage, Assistant Curate at Bourton on the Water with Clapton and the Rissingtons said: “Our community is so much more than a village and your church is so much more than a building.

St Lawrence’s is loved by many and we believe that the changes will ensure the church will better serve the needs of the community and secure a thriving congregation in the 21^st century and beyond. We are thrilled with the building project which has been carried out using high quality materials, craftsmanship and skill. We want to give a special thanks to architect James Rees and JND Builders for their dedication and comittment to the project.“

Highlights of the reopening weekend are a teddy bears picnic on Thursday 28 September (9am), a Breakfast Church Special on Saturday 29 September at 9am, launching a whole day of all age activities, and a special service of Holy Communion led by the Rt Revd Robert Springett, Bishop of Tewkesbury on Sunday 1 October at 11am.

Bishop Robert said: “Huge congratulations to the people of St Lawrence Bourton on the Water who have worked with energy and vision for the re-ordering of their church. The result is fantastic, providing an inspiring space for worship and facilities for the whole community. It has been a long wait – but very much worth it and I am looking forward to being present to celebrate its opening on 1 October.”

The reopening has happened just in time for the church’s annual Harvest Festival which will be on Sunday 8 October at 11am. All are welcome to any of the services or events. Find out more at http://ift.tt/2wEOFhu

 

Photo: (Right to left) Richard Craig, Project Manager, the Revd Rachel Rosborough, former rector who was instrumental in the vision, implementation of the plans and oversight of the project, churchwardens Robert Nelmes and Christine Morphew who have steered it towards completion, site foreman Martin Webb and Luke Bayliss, subcontractor of JND Builders.