Kenilworth church reopens after major building project

A church in Kenilworth had reopened now that a major building project has been completed.

St Nicholas Church is a Grade I Listed building dating back to sometime between 1210 and 1285.

The church was closed in September for a major building project, which is now complete.

The project architect was Mark King of Kenilworth, the heating consultants were the Engineering Practice of Leamington Spa and the main contractor for the project was Arden Construction Ltd of Alcester.

The work included; replacing the old heating installation with a modern computer-controlled system; new electrical wiring and removing of pews along the north and south walls of the nave.

New floors were also added to create open spaces with level floors - these areas are carpeted and walkways are covered by boards salvaged and refurbished during the works.

When opening up old floors it revealed rotten timber floor supports, which required treatment and replacement.

During the work, the team came across the 'lead pig' in the chancel and the 'legend' was that it was salvaged from lead recovered from the adjacent Abbey roof following its dissolution at the behest of Henry VIII in 1538.

However, the site team said: “It rings when struck and therefore cannot be lead”.

Local historian Rev Norman Steven shed light on the item. He said that the pig was actually made from bell metal salvaged from numerous bells when the Abbey was demolished.

It has now been moved away from the altar to a new resting place.

Reverend Stella Bailey, Vicar, said: “We are custodians of this beautiful, historic church.

"It is not just a building but a living and breathing worshipping community, people from the town come to this amazing building at significant times their lives.

"This project has made our church more fit for the purpose but still retains its character.

"We are now able to offer better hospitality and warmth for the church family and the whole community.”

Keith Grierson, project manager said: “The project cost was £200,000. The church had £160,000 of legacy money put aside for this and are hoping to raise the balance from donations.

"Please donate by either making a donation to the Parochial Church Council of St Nicholas Kenilworth or sponsoring a chair - £150 per chair or £185 for arm chairs.

"Please come and join us for worship, private prayer or just a visit."

For more details contact Rosie Dalby, parish administrator, on 01926 857 509 or by emailing: [email protected]

For more information about St Nicholas Church go to: http://www.stnicholaskenilworth.org.uk