THANK you very much for your story (Restoration complete on city centre church, May 13) about St Nicholas’ Church and the excellent work of Stig Evans and Greg Howarth, who have restored much of the church during the past decade.
The church received a Sussex Heritage Award in 2009 for their restoration of the mediaeval screen and the East and West Walls.
As you say, a great deal of work has been completed. However, your conclusion that the restoration ‘finish line is in touching distance’ is sadly not the case. It is a never-ending task, and the latest five-year survey on the condition of the church reveals that much remains to be done.
A programme of restoration and repairs drawn up in response to the survey's findings will be started later this year and will take several years to complete. It will include replacement of deteriorated stonework and masonry, including sections of the stone framework of the Charles Eamer Kempe stained glass windows.
This is in addition to work on the bell tower, the oldest part of the Church. It is thought that the work will cost more than £100,000 over the next five years.
The Friends of St Nicholas' Church work with the church council and are charged with the task of raising money needed to keep the building in a state of good health through fundraising events, donations and endowments. New members and donations are always welcome.
More details can be found at www.stnicholasbrighton.org.uk.
St Nicholas’ Church is one of the oldest buildings in Brighton and the Ancient Mother Church of the city. It is also the heart of the city centre community and hosts a family playgroup, a youth club, a youth cafe and many community events. During 2014/15 more than 16 community groups used the church in any one month.
The church has opened its doors to the community for worship and support for more than 800 years. With your help we can ensure the doors stay open for years to come.
Bill Randall Chair
Friends of St Nicholas' Church
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