Ecclesiastical & Heritage World (Apr 2013 No. 55) by DMMonline

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contents

In this issue...

CRE INTERNATIONAL 7 Church resources show returns to hallowed turf 11 The travelling show that brings church to life 13 Are you in the zone? PROJECTS 15 Ventrolla safeguards history in Cheltenham 36 New installation lights the way for pilgrims 39 Stone conquers repairs at ancient Norman castle 40 Monocouche render brings new life to Gosford Castle GREEN ISSUES 16 Green Deal and traditional buildings 19 Consider the alternative COVER STORY: St George’s Chapel, one of the finest examples of baroque-style architecture outside London, has been brought back from the brink as the centrepiece of an £8m modernisation of Great Yarmouth’s King Street area – Page 4

CRE International A preview of CRE International at Sandown highlighting the wide range of products and services offered by the event’s exhibitors – Page 7

TRAINING 20 Heritage skills training is HLF funded 20 New apprenticeships in heritage construction THE ROOFING AWARDS 2013 21 Heritage projects figure large in awards scheme 22 Co-operation is watchword for awards’ success 22 The Hive – Europe’s first fully integrated library 23 Unique roofing material finalist in Roofing Awards 24 Brand new ‘Grade One-listed’ building short listed 25 Roofers in line to be made kings of the castle 26 York roofing firm’s triple success 27 Martin-Brooks honoured for heritage skills LEAD 29

Positive mood at 2013 LCA Directory launch

CHURCH HEATING 31 Controlling your heating can save more than money 31 How do you heat ancient fabric? 31 It really is a case of all gas and gaiters! 32 A heating system to meet your church’s specific needs 33 Sun shines on energy generation 33 NT embarks on renewables programme 33 Is 2013 the year for solar PV? NEWS 34 34 35 35

ATLAS continues to support apprenticeships Wudu ablution washing station joins specialist portfolio Miniature Cotswolds village is Grade Two-listed Somerset church gets the Time Team treatment

Classified Section p41

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ACCESS 37 Legislation requires equal access 37 Making Church Accessible to All Richard Shepherd – Business Development Manager Tel: 07429 516265 Email: richard@dmmonline.co.uk All other enquiries: Tel: 0161 710 3880 Fax: 0161 710 3879 61 Lower Hillgate, Stockport, Cheshire SK1 3AW Copyright Ecclesiastical & Heritage World. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be copied, reproduced or transmitted in any form without prior permission of Ecclesiastical & Heritage World. Views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher.

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Baroque masterpiece takes centre stage

The chapel viewed from the park – note the asp end O IN 1714 A NUMBER of wealthy coal merchants in Great Yarmouth, Norfolk, undertook the construction of St George’s Chapel, on the town’s King Street. The new chapel was modelled on St Clement Dane in London – designed by Sir Christopher Wren and in the news recently as part of the route taken at the funeral of the late Baroness Thatcher. The Grade One-listed building is widely considered to be one of the finest examples of baroque-style architecture outside London today. After many years service to the town as a place of worship, the chapel fell into disrepair and was deconsecrated. Then, after a period of around 25 years as a theatre and community space following major repairs in 1974, the chapel was deemed unsafe and closed in 2006. Its future once again became unsure. Recently, however, the building has been brought back from the brink as the centrepiece of an £8m modernisation of the King Street area. Funds for the project were secured from English Heritage, the Heritage Lottery Fund, the East of England Development Association (EEDA), CABE’s Sea Change programme and both county and local councils. Hopkins Architects of London were commissioned to call on their inspiration and considerable knowledge to re-design the chapel and surrounding area. Following their recent projects at Lord’s cricket ground and the Olympic velodrome at Stratford, a well-designed project was anticipated. Hopkins have designed the area of St George’s Plain as three distinct parts: The Chapel or Theatre, a new pavilion next to it, acting as refectory and front of house, and an open public

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area which can be used for fairs, markets, outside performances or just sitting with friends enjoying the open air and a coffee. Norfolk Sheet Lead UK Ltd were approached at tender stage by all the main contractors quoting for the project. It is a well-known local family-run company renowned for its high quality standards, which include the technical knowledge to undertake the sub-contract lead roofing design package. Norfolk Sheet Lead were awarded the project in late 2010 in open tendering. Once the contract had been secured, the challenging design phase started. That included

The tower roof – note the penetrations there were 16 and accurate fixing detail – very tight to work on

complete specification and over 100 hours site survey works to provide an accurate measure of angles, falls and dimensions of the complete roof area. With the survey complete the design team commenced the drawing phase, providing over 50 detailed scale drawings for inclusion in the main contractor’s presentation to the client and architects. The lead roof design did not simply involve lifting the old and fitting the new lead, even with changes in line with Lead Sheet Association recommendations. The team had to include acoustic sound proofing, full insulation and cross ventilation – all without extensively changing the external appearance of the original roof dimensions or visual roof lines. The fixed roof lines and the siting of the existing gutter behind a very low and restricting parapet gave senior designer Carl Bream several sleepless nights in his effort to provide the chapel with the roof the project deserved. However, over the following three months the design was perfected. Now that the main design was complete, the construction of the roof could start. In 1714 the original chapel would have had a lead roof, but after having been re-roofed at least once since then using lead, at around the beginning of World War One the lead was removed and replaced with copper sheet. That copper roof was removed in early February 2011, once the scaffold and temporary roof were in place. Over five-and-a-half tonnes of scrap copper was removed and recycled, together with lead from the west tower, dome and parapets. Some of the existing lead from 1714 was saved after removal and laid aside for later re-use.

With the roof now prepared the structural repairs and formation of the new design could start. The design team from Norfolk Lead Sheet was closely involved in the construction phase of the timber roof sub-structure, ensuring at all times that the design was followed. Carl Bream takes up the story: “As the construction phase progressed our craftsmen removed the original 1714 cast-lead rainwater system, which required extensive repair using mandrels and bobbins to straighten and re-form the existing lead pipes and seven of the eight bossed rainwater hoppers. We used the original lead laid aside earlier to re-form sections of missing pipework, fixing ears and bossed hoppers, so that we could achieve a material match and continuity with the elevations of the chapel. Unfortunately, due to thefts while the chapel was closed years earlier, we did not have all the pipework required for the eight rainwater stacks, so we fitted the original 1714 pipework with re-formed bossed hoppers at the west end and used Code 6 milled lead to re-form the rainwater system, including hoppers, at the east end of the chapel.” In early May 2011 the team started on site. Carl was accompanied by two other qualified craftsmen and three apprentices. All members of Carl’s team had at one point or another been trained by him. The timber construction, although not complete, was progressing well to the design. In all, 57 tonnes of milled lead, supplied by Abbey Metals, in Codes 5, 6, 7 and 8 were fitted over the following 10 months. Close supervision by Carl ensured every detail complied with the Lead Sheet Association recommendations, right down to nail spacings and the expansion gaps on over 1,000 welded clips. Most of the lead details were bossed, the preferred method of the craftsmen. Lead welding was used for some details but only as a last resort. The result is impressive, as can be seen from the accompanying photographs. From the bossed finial and dome to the tower roof working around 16 penetrating posts to the flat and mansard roofing, curved gutters and main parapet capping. That’s not to mention external capping on several porticos – both straight and curved – and all the window sills on the chapel. Carl Bream describes the next phase: “In early 2012 we started on the new pavilion roof using some 14 tonnes of Code 6 milled lead. The design included radial tapered bays at both ends, again with full cross ventilation up to the large designed ridge capping. Again, all the details

Carl Bream shown bossing a section of the finial orb for the tower dome (top); pavillon roof showing radial tapered bays and ridge (middle); the cornice and curved gutter – excellent details (right)

complied strictly with the recommendations of the Lead Sheet Association. We completed the project in April 2012 and we are proud of the results achieved by our dedicated team. St George’s now has a roof which will last well into the 22nd century and beyond.” St George’s has been entered in several national awards and has already reached the

finalists stage in both the National Roofing Awards (featured on p21 of this issue) and the Lead Contractors Association Murdoch Awards – widely considered to be the top accolade for lead work in the UK. The company are in fact a founder member of the LCA, which is a professional trade body and was formed in 1984 to prioritise quality standards in leadwork. q

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Church resources show returns to hallowed turf International Christian Resources Exhibition – or CRE International to its many devotees – is back on home turf, so to speak, in May when it returns to Sandown Park in Surrey for its 24th incarnation. O THE SHOW HAS BURGEONED since the first event at the Horticultural Halls in London in 1985, and now takes place at an increasing number of locations around the country. For some years, however, Sandown has been its spiritual home and sees the biggest and best attended of the shows. Last year the event clocked up just short of 10,000 visitors. This year the full programme of events and showcases for church leaders, organisers, communicators and mission leaders will take place from 14-17 May. The exhibitors at CRE cover the whole spectrum of goods and services needed to run a church building, be it an ancient listed edifice or a modern and efficient structure. It is here that the most striking innovations are often unveiled to take worship into the modern world, but it also acts as a showcase for traditional crafts and artisanship. So it is that designers and makers of the vestments and paraphernalia of worship are found comparing notes with suppliers of the latest technological wonders. The church has played its part in utilising technology in recent years, adapting both hardware and software for both temporal and spiritual purposes. Communication is, after all, at the heart of the Bible message. Technology is to be found in the running and maintenance of the church’s fabric, too. Thus, ancient buildings are kept in working order by the microchip as well as the mason’s chisel. All this will be on show at CRE International, as will software for church accounts, creating music and even sermon writing for those less than inspired moments. This year will see the launch of software to enable church magazines to be read by people with visual impairments and the website designer Church Edit teaming up with United Christian Broadcasters to incorporate links and streaming into church websites. Times are hard and for churches that is no new phenomenon. At CRE International, however, ethical financial products will be on offer to help shoulder the burden for the individual or the church. Plus there is ample opportunity to help others by giving. Changing times are reflected by changes to the goods and services on offer. So ‘midi’ keyboards and sound systems are more likely to be found than pipe organ builders, while the Stone Village has given way to solar panel manufacturers.

There will be theatre performances at the Horse Walk, where traditionally the racehorses are paraded

Some exhibitors, however, have been coming since the shows started and those perennials that will be on offer this year include furniture, heating, ecclesiastical architects and the stock-in-trade of every church – Bibles. For when it all gets a bit exhausting, visitors can stop for refreshments and even catch a show. There will be theatre performances at the Horse Walk, where traditionally the racehorses are paraded, while a full programme of events in the Arts Theatre will include stand-up from Paul Kerensa, Linvoy Primus on ‘Faith and Football’ and renowned evangelist Tony Campolo. As the organisers say: “CRE is more than just an exhibition, it’s an event with seminars and workshops led by gifted communicators in their field of expertise, with presentations ranging from how to lead worship to young people and the Bible.” Among the many seminars and workshops there will a practical one-hour session on integrating services and technical facilities into a refurbishment programme, allowing those responsible for fabric to work with design teams from the outset. R

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Church heating supplier has the specialist knowledge n ONE OF THE ‘REGULARS’ at CRE exhibitions around the country is well-established church heating specialists Mellor and Mottram. Established in 1973 and based in Stoke-on-Trent, Mellor and Mottram began as a commercial heating installer but soon settled into its niche as suppliers to churches – a role it now fills exclusively. Supplying and installing heating systems in churches is very much a specialist activity because of the unique nature of the building and its pattern of use. Many churches in this country are listed ancient buildings, with a number dating from the Middle Ages and the majority dating back at least to the Victorian period. They are not in continuous occupation, which can cause problems with the ancient fabric if they are not heated carefully. Mellor and Mottram deal almost exclusively with such buildings, giving them a rare level of expertise across denominations, from establishment Catholic and Anglican churches to non-conformist and Methodist chapels dating from the Industrial Revolution. Recent projects have included a Victorian Unitarian church in West Yorkshire, the medieval cathedral in Bangor, a post-war Catholic church in Cornwall and a 1960s Methodist church in Cheshire. They are about to commence work on an Anglican Parish Church in Milnrow, near Rochdale. As with domestic or commercial installations, heating systems in churches can take a variety of forms, from traditional gas or oil-fired boiler and radiator or underfloor systems to electric storage, warm air or even pew heaters. Recently, heat pumps have come into use to replace boilers as churches take action to ‘shrink their footprint’. Gas is, however, still the most popular fuel for heating churches and comprises the majority of installations by Mellor and Mottram.

Oil fired direct fed warm air system

In many cases old systems such as the beautiful but inefficient Grundy boilers have been replaced with more economic and efficient systems. In other cases the old cast-iron systems have been able to be repaired and continue in use. Having carried out a new installation, Mellor and Mottram can then provide a comprehensive after-sales service, in addition to a range of contracts for the servicing and repair of existing systems. q • To find out more about how Mellor and Mottram can be of service to your church, visit their stand at CRE Sandown Park or their website at www.mellorandmottram.com.

Modern marvel sits beneath medieval gem n THE PARISH CHURCH OF St Mary in Colton, Staffordshire has boasted a number of treasures over the centuries. Parts of the church date from the late 12th century and when it was rebuilt in the 1850s a set of 14thcentury frescoes was discovered. The altar pieces from the rebuilding contain panels by William Morris. The modern congregation also benefit from a hidden treasure: the underfloor heating system installed by Mellor and Mottram. The church took advantage of the lifting of the main floor to have the system installed.

Installing new underfloor heating at St Mary’s Church, Colton, Staffordshire

It was a precision operation because, as Stuart Mottram explains, the work could only penetrate to 300mm to avoid disturbing the unique archaeology. The new system comprises four distinct

heating zones – nave, north aisle, south aisle and bell tower – powered by two Keston gasfired boilers and complemented by radiators in the chancel and Lady Chapel, where the floors were not lifted. q

Out with the old in Cornwall n WHEN THE CATHOLIC CHURCH of St Mary in Bodmin, Cornwall, decided to have a new heating system installed, they turned to Mellor and Mottram to carry out the work. Although the church building had been begun in 1937, World War II intervened and it was not consecrated until 1965. When the time came to renew the system the original, oil-fired Grundy boiler was still in place and had to be removed. A new wet system was considered, but the ordering of the interior would not allow it, so in the end the church opted for a gas-fired convector system using an indirect heater. The new heater was also fitted with sound attenuators to control the noise and has Mellor and Mottram’s IQ+ controller operating from two averaging Removal of Grundy system at St Mary’s in Bodmin, Cornwall room thermostats in the main church. q www.ecclesiasticalandheritageworld.co.uk

Church furniture specialists provide a Finer product n Fullers Finer Furniture is based in Weston-super-Mare, Somerset and was established in 1985. From humble beginnings they now design and manufacture church furniture on a national basis. Although they offer furniture both commercially and for the home, it is church furniture that they specialise in. From bespoke items to the award winning gas height adjustable Canterbury Lectern, right through to restoration work and complete reordering of church furniture, Fullers provide a high quality comprehensive service with distinctive attention to detail. The award winning Canterbury Lectern, and its big brother The York Lectern, are gas height adjustable to suit the needs of any congregation. With a stylish design they come in a number of finishes including oak, ash, beech, mahogany and maple. Fitted with microphone sockets and the option of an LCD video monitor, these fine portable lecterns will fit perfectly into any type of church building. They are also able to design and make to order communion tables, fonts, A/V cabinets, table top lecterns, choir frontals, communion rails, flower stands and much more. q â&#x20AC;˘ Visit Fullers Finer Furniture at CRE Sandown, stand No. T18/T19.

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The travelling show that brings church to life n THE CRE INTERNATIONAL SHOW at Sandown is the annual highlight of what has become an expanding series of exhibitions around the country. CRE North has been staged periodically in Manchester for a number of years: first at G-MEX – now Manchester Central – and then last year at EventCity in Trafford. There are also shows at Exeter and Peterborough. The past year has seen that expansion accelerate. This January saw the first show in Bristol and there will be shows in Edinburgh and Birmingham. In fact, this is the first time there will have been four shows in the same year. One visitor to the Bristol show wrote: “What an inspiration. It’s been a wonderful and worthwhile day for myself and my friends. We’ve come away full of fresh ideas, encouragement and especially new ways to share Jesus in our church and local community. We especially loved Bible Society’s mp3 New Testament giveaway. A number of people at church are partially sighted. Now they

will be able to hear and study the Gospel again for themselves. Can’t wait for the next one - we’ll definitely be back.”

Highlights over the years have included the world’s first inflatable church, a collapsible baptistery that fits in a car, the highly quirky and successful MCNOOT competition (My Church Needs One Of Those) and more recently the Clergy on the Catwalk show, at which the latest fashions in ecclesiastical vestments are showcased by real clergy turned models for the day. Technology has been at the heart of many of the products available. CRE has seen electronic music leading praise, lighting systems that can be controlled at the touch of a button and the Bible available on computer or even portable devices. More recently, the drive for energy conservation has seen the presence of solar panel installers and ground-source heating systems. The exhibitors at CRE are definitely evidence that the church is not a static, stick-in-the-mud institution. CRE is currently run and organised by the Bible Society. q

Ancient and modern

hi-tech AV company returns to Sandown n THE UNIQUE BLEND OF ancient buildings combined with the latest technology that epitomises the modern church will be in evidence once more at CRE International in the persons of audio-visual specialists DM Music and their installation division DM Installation Projects. The company will be presenting some of the latest audio visual technologies particularly suited to church use, which this year will include iPad touch screen control systems from Crestron that allow complete

wireless control of audio, including level control in different zones, remote audio playback and recording. Primarily, the systems allow for very simple operation of complex systems, but they also offer huge flexibility and lots of possibilities for system expansion in the future. It’s not just audio, either, the systems can control electric screens, projectors, lighting, heating – you name it. Simple accessible control is just a fingertip away, anywhere in the church building.

As well as an installation in Wakefield Cathedral, DM recently completed a full sound system at the University Church of St Mary the Virgin in Oxford: part of a £5.5m restoration of the historic church which saw the final sermon of Thomas Cranmer prior to his burning at the stake in 1556 and the launch of the 19th-century Oxford Movement by John Henry, later Cardinal, Newman. The system includes a number of very discreet K-Array speakers and complete iPad control via a Crestron System. Such a success was the installation that the directors of DM Music and DM Installation Projects were invited to the official re-opening service in March. q • For more information visit www.dmmusic.com. www.ecclesiasticalandheritageworld.co.uk

Let’s Imagine creates a difference for The Salvation Army n LET’S IMAGINE is a branding consultancy with a creative curiosity for finding interesting and innovative ways to communicate through design. Recently they had the privilege to help The Salvation Army create and install a monument at the National Memorial Arboretum. The Salvation Army is well remembered, known and respected for its involvement and support during times of conflict – both past and present. The concept ‘hope and help’ is dramatically symbolised by two outstretched and touching hands – capturing the essence of The Salvation Army’s work and Christian ministry. The glass has been deep-etched, screen printed and laminated. The footplate has been engraved with a contemplative verse ‘Be still and know that I am God’. The result is a beautifully distinctive and engaging piece of artwork – a powerful image, simply portrayed. q

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• For more information please call: 01737 361468, email: discover@ letsimagine.co.uk or visit: www.letsimagine.co.uk. You can meet Let’s Imagine at CRE Esher, Stand S4.

Are you in n ONE OF THE FEATURES of any CRE is the inclusion of themed ‘zones’ specialising in particular aspects of church activity. This year the established Web and Media Zone will be expanding to include the sound and lighting systems used in multimedia as well as production equipment and materials. The zone is also the place to go for the Christian Film Festival, now in its second year having previewed at Sandown before moving with CRE to Manchester last year. Three days of screenings will lead up to Film Friday, when a full programme of film seminars and events will culminate in the presentation of the Christian Film Festival Awards. A new presence at the zone will be United Christian Broadcasters (UCB), which is teaming up with Church Edit to offer church websites hosted by them the opportunity to access UCB’s programmes from their own sites. Church Edit’s Kyle Cottingham explained: “The UCB bar appears at the bottom of each page, giving visitors direct access to the UCB TV channel and all five UCB radio stations.”

the zone? The UCB-developed website Looking for God will also be available to access directly. Said Kyle: “The Looking for God website is a great resource for people wanting to find out more about Christianity. This website is now just one click away.” Other special ‘zones’ include the Churches for All Zone, which is aimed at inclusivity for disabled people. Seminars range from presenting material in a form usable by blind and visually impaired people to a discussion led by Prospects and based on the book Making Church Accessible to All, which is a guide on the practical issues surrounding accessibility for disabled people. Said the organisers: “The London 2012 Paralympics impressed us all. It wasn’t about disabilities but about the abilities of disabled people and it’s reckoned there has been a positive impact on the way we all think about disabled people. But what difference has it made to your church? Churches for All Zone exhibitors are Christian organisations that share a passion to see disabled people fully included and involved in church life.” q

Autosave launch new website n AUTOSAVE, THE TRUSTED CHRISTIAN car retailer with over 30 years’ experience, have got some great news for car buyers. They are pleased to announce the launch of a brand new bigger, better and easier to use website at www.autosave.co.uk. Operations director Richard May said: “I’m really excited by our new website, it’s been a huge investment in both time and money, but it’s

really paid off in terms of the massive improvement in not only the choice of vehicles available to view, but also in how much easier it is to interact with and to find exactly what you are looking for, giving our customers the online experience they deserve. “There are up to 4,000 vehicles available to view and compare and we check every price, every day (except Sunday) to ensure you pay the lowest price possible. Every vehicle available online has over thirty clear photographs, and the majority have a full 360º video, allowing you to see exactly what’s on offer. “Of course, some things never change. The quality, service and benefits our Christian customers have come to expect are all still in place. Every vehicle is thoroughly checked, is fully guaranteed and has a comprehensive warranty. We’ll give you a fair price for your partexchange and can arrange some of the best finance deals available. All this, and we still deliver the car to your door – it couldn’t be easier. “If you’re looking for a brand new car, Autosave can supply any make or any model. So, all that’s left to say is, check out our new site for yourself. If you’ve visited us before, prepare to be amazed at how far we’ve come to bring you a massively improved online experience. And, if you’re new to our site, then we’d like to welcome you into a Christian car buying experience only Autosave can offer.” q • You can visit Autosave at stand no. S17 at CRE Sandown. www.ecclesiasticalandheritageworld.co.uk

Church seating that’s timeless, elegant and versatile n A WELL PLANNED CHURCH OR church hall helps you to get the very most from your space. The ability to change and adapt seating layouts allows you to cater for a whole range of activities: different services aimed at different groups of people, community events within the church and wider community events. Mogo Direct’s range of chairs are designed to be versatile, space-efficient, durable and easy to handle – from their comprehensive range of folding chairs and storage trolleys to a selection of stacking chairs to suit all budgets and settings. Launched at CRE Sandown 2011, the premium quality Jasper chair has since proved a popular choice with both churches and architects. It is admired for its contemporary yet timeless design, which complements both traditional and modern Churches, as well as its stackability and range of options. Tested to BS EN 15373:2007 for strength and stability and backed by a 10 year guarantee, the Jasper has been designed and built to last. You’ll be able to see the Jasper chair on the

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Jasper chairs recently supplied to St Jude’s Church, Brompton, London Mogo Direct stand at the Christian Resources Exhibition in Sandown this May, as well as the rest of their range of stacking and folding furniture. If you can’t wait until then, get in touch with them for further information or to request a sample. q

Stand S23-24 E: hello@mogodirect.co.uk W: www.mogodirect.co.uk T: 08456 447 955

New improved lighting at St John the Baptist n WHEN THE PARISHIONERS OF St John the Baptist Parish Church in Longbridge decided that the existing lighting was in need of rejuvenation, church lighting design and installation specialists Anthony J Smith (Gloucester) Ltd were invited to discuss the needs and requirements for this vibrant community church. The original lighting system was becoming increasingly difficult to maintain and a greater degree of energy efficiency and increased lighting levels, together with a flexible switching arrangement, were needed for the various liturgical and community activities that take place within the church. A number of solutions were discussed with and demonstrated to the PCC and a bespoke borosilicate glass pendant was developed and manufactured. The compact fluorescent lamps within the pendant are controlled through high frequency electronic dimmable control gear which allows them to be smoothly dimmed down to 10 per cent of their maximum output, whilst providing an expected life of 15,000 hours which equates to 15 years should the lighting be used for 20 hours per week. The pendants, combined with additional St John the Baptist Parish Church’s new nave uplighting, new lighting system lighting for the Chancel, increased lighting levels for performances at the front of the nave and with all the switches located in one position, now allow for maximum flexibility in both lighting levels and ambiance. Gordon Mills, the buildings fabric officer said: “On behalf of the Parochial Church Council, we are very pleased with the new lighting system. The nave uplighting has introduced a new dimension into the church which is appreciated by the congregation as is the enhanced lighting within the sanctuary. The work to install the new system was carried out in a very neat and professional manner.” q • You can visit Anthony J Smith (Gloucester) Ltd at CRE Sandown stand No. S63 or for more information visit www.anthonyjsmith. co.uk.

Ventrolla safeguards history in the heart of Cheltenham n A GRANDIOSE GEORGIAN PROPERTY boasting 8 bedrooms has been given a bright new outlook, thanks to the experts at Ventrolla Wessex. Glebe House, in the idyllic village of Bourton-on-the-Water, was suffering from rotten sash windows that had allowed damp to seep in, while others were painted shut. In total, 31 sash windows required Ventrolla’s specialist treatment. The team installed the unique Ventrolla Perimeter Sealing System (VPSS) to help combat the leaks but also to ensure against draughts, rattles and external noise. Any decaying timber was treated and replaced. Three new casement windows were required during the renovation after rot had left them beyond economical repair. Ventrolla’s expertise was also used to tackle the ageing doors, resulting in five bespoke period doors being made and installed. Architect Keith Lily, who managed the renovation project, said: “After carrying out an assessment of the windows at Glebe House it was clear they were in a terrible state and needed a lot of attention. Having worked with Ventrolla before, I knew they were the professionals needed for this job. “I was again very impressed with Ventrolla and the unique craftsmanship on offer. They understood how important it was to preserve the characteristics of this beautiful home and ensure that the property maintained its period features.” Glebe House is a Grade II listed property owned by Dr Jeremy George. Having been unoccupied for a number of years, the home is undergoing a full renovation to restore its historic charm. q • Ventrolla offers a unique renovation service for sliding sash and casement windows, and not forgetting its range of timber doors. The company has its head office in Harrogate, with additional locations throughout the UK and Ireland. For further information visit www. ventrolla.co.uk. www.ecclesiasticalandheritageworld.co.uk

Green Deal and traditional buildings The challenge of doing what’s best for the building by Tim Yates, Technical Director, Building Research Establishment Ltd. n THE UK HAS COMMITTED to an 80% reduction in CO2 emissions by 2050. The regular revision of Part L of the Building Regulations will help the UK achieve its targets for new houses but the realisation that most of the building stock in 2050 is already built has turned attention towards our existing houses and offices – and in particular the older housing stock which is rightly seen as, in general, being far less energy inefficient than the most recent housing stock. The potential for reducing emissions (and for saving money) from solid walled buildings is very considerable. Analysis of the latest published English House Condition Survey (EHCS) (2007) data shows that 4.77 million dwellings in England (21.5% of English stock) were built pre-1919 and it is likely that the

proportion in the rest of the UK is higher. The current average SAP rating of the pre1919 stock is 40 (a low E rating on the Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) scale) and approximately 10 SAP points below the stock average of 50 and 50 points below a new build meeting Building Regulations (a B on the EPC scale). It is recognised that around 35% of heat from dwellings is lost through solid external walls. Improving the thermal performance of this type of wall is therefore important. The majority of new buildings have cavity walls, but many older buildings (i.e. pre-1920) are constructed of solid brick or natural stone and these present a particular challenge when it comes to improving the thermal performance of the building as any improvements are likely to change either the appearance of the building or reduce the useable internal space.

Thermal image of a ‘B’ Listed tenement showing reduced heat loss from the ground floor flat on the left, following upgrade work – Image courtesy of Historic Scotland

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However, for many the interest in the refurbishment of buildings is a response to a requirement and desire to improve the living conditions in many older houses – to be warmer, feel safer and be more comfortable. Any reduction in emission of green-house gases happens as an added bonus and only rarely because we want to mitigate the effects of global climate change. To help stimulate the update of energy efficient measures in the existing housing stock the Government has launched the ‘Green Deal’ scheme. The Green Deal is the new government initiative that is designed to help business and home owners to improve the energy efficiency of their property with the costs paid back through your energy bill over a period of time. The ‘golden rule’ of the Green Deal is that the expected financial savings must be equal to or greater than the costs attached to the energy bill. The key to the government’s thinking is that the building stock in Britain needs to be properly insulated. Once the buildings are properly insulated, occupiers will spend less money on heating them and so be able to repay the initial financial outlay. But many involved with the care of traditional houses and buildings are concerned that the incentive provided by the Green Deal will lead to ‘improvements’ that are inappropriate and may be damaging to the building in the long term. The potential problems originate from a combination of lack of experience of the particular needs of traditionally constructed houses amongst the assessors, installers and finance providers, and uncertainty that the energy models used to predict savings are good predictors for solid walls buildings. The key to improving energy efficiency of traditional buildings is to take a whole house approach and to have a good understanding of the way that heat and moisture move through the fabric of the building and are likely to impact on

the materials used in the construction – particularly timber in the roof, walls, windows, doors and floors. This means taking into consideration the type of house, then looking at all appropriate energy efficiency measures, then examining renewable energy options and including water and waste reduction measures. There are many simple improvements, such as draught proofing, that can be made, but the available evidence indicates that for solid walled dwellings to achieve significant CO2 savings then improving thermal performance of the external walls needs to be included in the plans. But the potential benefits from installing internal or external insulation needs to be considered along with the planning constraints, the potential impact on the fabric of remedial works and the need for a wider range of repairs and a planned maintenance programme during and after any intervention. The Green Deal offers a great opportunity to improve the thermal performance of many traditionally constructed houses but those responsible for them and those responsible for any improvements need to remember that these buildings may be different from more modern buildings. And that in looking to make changes the needs of these buildings must be considered so that they will remain part of our building heritage for future generations. q

Thermal image of the same tenement using different temperature scales – Image courtesy of Historic Scotland Further information: • Green Deal www.gov.uk/greendeal • Retrofit of traditional buildings http://www.sdfoundation.org.uk/downloads/RESPONSIBLE-RETROFIT_ • FINAL_20_SEPT_2012.pdf Information on traditional buildings and energy efficiency: • Historic Scotland http://conservation.historic-scotland.gov.uk/energyhouse.htm • English Heritage http://www.english-heritage.org.uk/professional/advice/advice-by-topic/climate-• • • change/energy-efficiency/9-energy-efficiency-guidance/

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Consider the alternative The increasing costs of lead theft are leading building owners, estate managers and specifiers to consider viable alternatives. Zinc is one of the most likely choices, but can you be sure you choosing a green alternative? Jonathan Lowy, Product Manager at VMZINC, states that the answer is a resounding ‘Yes’. n ZINC IS AMONG THE most sustainable metals used in construction today and has been used on the roofs of Paris for almost 200 years. VMZINC rolled zinc products are used in construction industries throughout the world for their sustainability, distinctive appearance and low maintenance requirements. As with VMZINC façade and rainwater systems, manufacturing processes for our standing seam system present a low environmental impact, particularly with regard to energy expenditure. As the comparative energy expenditure diagram shows, less energy is required to extract zinc from the ground than the other principal metals, and the figures are even more favourable for recycled zinc. Such minimal use of energy in the production of zinc clearly indicates its contribution to sustainable development. 95% of old rolled zinc recovered every year in Western Europe, currently estimated at 100,000 tonnes, is reused. This represents savings in mining resources of between 1 and 2 million tonnes. The VMZINC standing seam system benefits from zinc’s self-protecting patina which develops as a result of exposure to water and carbon dioxide. Over the last 50 years the quantity of sulphur dioxide in the atmosphere has been greatly reduced. SO2 being the key agent of corrosion means that corrosion rates are now 1μm per year. With an initial thickness of 0.7mm, the estimated life span of rolled zinc is over a hundred years. VMZINC

undertakes Life Cycle Analysis (LCA) tests on its products and publishes Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs), such as BRE Environmental Profiles, available from our website www. vmzinc.co.uk and www.greenbooklive.com. These provide users with comprehensive, reliable and transparent information on relevant environmental characteristics. The information is also used by VMZINC as the

basis for its eco-design approach. A wide range of zinc roofing and cladding systems have been audited with the systems receiving a Green Guide rating of up to A+. These profiles can then be applied to the BREEAM (BRE Environmental Assessment Method) allowing VMZINC to contribute to schemes such as the Code for Sustainable Homes. The VMZINC standing seam system is also highly cost-effective, both from an initial procurement and design life perspective. Whether for new build or refurbishment, the VMZINC standing seam system has been designed to complement a wide range of building materials and styles. The finishes available offer exceptional colour stability. This ensures that maintenance requirements will be minimal throughout the system’s design life and that the material’s installed appearance will be retained for many years. VMZINC’s versatile standing seam system can be used for warm or cold roof constructions. VMZINC ornaments also benefit from the above mentioned benefits. A few years ago a grade II listed bandstand on Clapham Common, originally erected in 1890, was completely refurbished using VMZINC. Among factors affecting zinc’s specification by architects Dannatt Johnson were its resistance to corrosion, low weight and VMZINC’s ability to meet the complex roof design requirements. q www.ecclesiasticalandheritageworld.co.uk

Heritage skills training is HLF funded n The National Heritage Training Group is offering bursaries for carefully selected individuals looking to learn new skills – or develop existing skills – with businesses and organisations involved in heritage building projects. The group’s Building Traditional Skills programme is funded to the tune of £1.3m by HLF to help recruit trainees on a carefully managed placement for 12 months, co-ordinating and supervising on-the-job training towards an NVQ qualification in one of a number of heritage building skills. Says the NHTG: “This is a fantastic opportunity for any business operating in the building sector and either already working on heritage projects or thinking of doing so. “We’ll use our expertise and contacts to recruit a suitable candidate on

your behalf, then pay them a tax-free bursary of £1,000 per month so there’s no cost to your business. We’ll also manage the placement in a way that minimises your involvement in any admin or paperwork relating to it. “Taking on a trainee can help your business satisfy HR obligations like Investors in People, adding value to your brand by doing something positive. “Many of the businesses already involved in Skills for the Future use it as a unique opportunity to trial a worker for 12 months before taking them on as a permanent member of staff. Better still, managers have a chance to coach and influence the trainee so that they’re already perfectly suited to the work – and integrated into the team – if they do stay on.” q

New apprenticeships in heritage construction n WOULD YOUR BUSINESS BENEFIT from employing a conservation, maintenance and repair apprentice? For the first time in the UK, North Yorkshire based Heritage Craft Alliance Ltd, can offer level 3 qualifications which meet the specific needs of the built heritage sector, in traditional building craft apprenticeships, masonry and wood occupations. The next courses commence in June this year. If you have craftspeople who would like to join their programme, or you could offer a place to a new apprentice, then they would like to hear from you. Students who have already achieved a level 2 craft or equivalent in contemporary craft studies, or who have 5 years’ experience in an approved occupation, can now enroll on a two year level 3 advanced apprenticeship covering traditional, historic, vernacular and contemporary building crafts.

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Within the qualification great effort is put into embracing the fundamentals of construction. Technology, materials science and craft skills are covered, along with underpinning knowledge of tools and techniques, which will enhance the student’s ability to work in both historic (pre-1919) and contemporary building environments. The company are seeking to prepare new craftspeople to fill the growing skills gaps in the built heritage and maintenance workforce which is beginning to bite severely in respect of the conversation and restoration of our historic building stock. q • For further information visit www.heritagecraftalliance.co.uk. If you already have an apprentice who could benefit from this programme, or could offer a placement for an apprentice on this course, please get in touch to discuss the apprenticeship in more detail.

Heritage projects figure large in the roofing industry’s awards scheme n THIS YEAR SEES THE eighth year of the national Roofing Awards, formerly the National Federation of Roofing Contractors (NFRC) Awards. In that time the awards have become an industry-wide competition that recognise and reward outstanding standards of workmanship and safety in the roofing industry. The competition covers the full spectrum of roofing disciplines, divided in to 12 categories. Entries open in September each year and close the following January. A number of projects in each category are shortlisted and in May, at the Roofing Awards Congress, the winners are announced along with other award winners. There is now a special category for Heritage projects, but other categories often contain entries for heritage or ecclesiastical roofing. This year the finalists in the Heritage category are: • Cumbria Roofing North West Ltd for Lowther Castle in Penrith, Cumbria • Claude N Smith Ltd for Lauchars at King’s Cliffe in Northamptonshire • Martin-Brooks (Roofing Specialists) Ltd for

St Barnabas’s Church in Bradwell, Derbyshire • Jordan Heritage Roofing Ltd for a Shippon and Calf Shed in the Snowdonia National Park near Caernarfon, Gwynedd Shortlisted projects in other categories involving heritage or ecclesiastical buildings include: Roof Slating: Greenough and Sons Roofing Contractors for the Grade Two-listed Avilion house at Treaddur Bay on Anglesey; Richard Soan Roofing Services for Stanmer House in Brighton Roof Sheeting: M R Site Services Ltd for the Grand Pier, Weston Super Mare Fully Supported Metal Roofing: Geoff Neal (Roofing) Ltd for St Mary’s Church in Watton, East Yorkshire; Norfolk Sheet Lead (UK) Ltd for St George’s Chapel in Great Yarmouth; Norman and Underwood Ltd for The Hive in Worcester; Clarke Roofing Southern Ltd for the Madeira Lift in Brighton Reinforced Bituminous Membrane: IKO PLC (with Breyer Group) for Bletchley Park National Codes Centre The winners of the 2013 Roofing Awards will be announced on 17 May at the Roofing

Awards Annual Congress Lunch at the Hilton Metropole in London. They will be hosted by TV personality Susanna Reid, best known for presenting BBC Breakfast. The congress itself is made up of two parts – the Awards Lunch and the Evening Dinner Dance. The awards themselves will commence with a champagne drinks reception, which over the years has become an excellent networking opportunity. A three-course lunch is followed by the awards ceremony. As well as the Roofing Award winners, prizes are also given in health and safety, training and youth competitions. The occasion is also used by the Lead Contractors’ Association to present its own Murdoch Award and Murdoch Sponsor’s Award. q

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Co-operation is the watchword

The pavillion roof at St George’s Chapel, Great Yarmouth won a finalist position in the Fully Supported Metal category for Norfolk Sheet Lead Ltd

n Announcing the shortlist for this year’s awards, Ray Horwood CBE, the chief executive of the NFRC, said: “Once again there are some real quality projects across the wide spectrum of roofing, from heritage to domestic, commercial and industrial. The manner that the industry has adapted to sustainability is clearly shown, not only in the green roofing, shingles and solar categories, but again across all the categories.” Writing in the awards preview, he added: “The Roofing Awards are continuing to grow in popularity, with the event acting as the catalyst to bring the roofing industry together. This year the event has brought together, for the first time, 10 host trade associations from across the sector, in a spirit of unity in presenting the best

The Hive Europe’s first fully integrated public and university library n THE NEW WORCESTER LIBRARY and History Centre was an innovative partnership development between Worcester County Council and the University of Worcester to create Europe’s first fully integrated public and university library. Known as The Hive, the dramatic building features seven roof cones for natural stack ventilation and is clad in 16,000 TECU® gold shingles. It has earned contractors Norman & Underwood a finalists place in the Fully Supported Metal section of the Roofing Awards 2013. The company’s Glazing and Roofing divisions worked together on the project to install the cladding, curtain walling, skylights, windows and all external and internal doors. The building’s design was particular challenging as the cones each had differing pitch and hip length, so the

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setting out of the shingles had to be carefully evaluated and maintained during installation. To allow access to the high level roof, Norman & Underwood had to design a series of bespoke working platforms, which were lifted into place by the onsite tower crane. q • For More information on this and other products and services visit http://www.nandu.co.uk.

for awards’ success of the roofing industry. “Our thanks go to those who have helped make the event possible through their sponsorship and in particular to SIG Roofing and Roofline for their generous underwriting of the event.” The trade associations involved with the awards, in addition to the NFRC, are: CompetentRoofer, the Liquid Roofing and Waterproofing Association (LRWA), the Roofing Tile Alliance (RTA), the Lead Contractors Association (LCA), the Lead Sheet Association (LSA), the Green Roof Centre, the Single Ply Roofing Association (SPRA), the Federation of Traditional Metal Roofing Contractors (FTMRC) and the Metal Cladding and Roofing Manufacturers Association (MCRMA). Nicky Rogers, one of the adjudicators, declared: “It was my very great honour to be

Stanmer House, Brighton earnt a finalist place in the Roof Slating category for Richard Soan Roofing Services at the judging of this year’s Roofing Awards. I have been involved with the Awards for four years now and I never fail to be impressed with the outstanding work carried out by UK roofing companies across all disciplines. The quality

of entries this year made the judges’ decisions extremely difficult, but we can be assured that despite difficult economic times, our industry continues to demonstrate incredibly high levels of professional workmanship.” q

Unique roofing material named finalist in Roofing Awards

n NOT FAR FROM STAMFORD in Lincolnshire is Collyweston, a traditional village in the heart of England. It is also the source of Collyweston ‘stone slate’, not a true slate but a fissile limestone formed in the Jurassic period, some 150 million years ago. The stone has been mined in the area since Roman times and was used extensively in the local area and on some prominent buildings around the country until the growth of the railways in the late 19th century led to the decline in the quarrying industry. The process of producing roofing tiles from the stone is unusual in that it involves the slate ‘logs’ being exposed to frost which causes the slate to split along its veins, producing stones that are ready for shaping using specially designed hammers. Once worked, the stone slates are stored on their edge for onward sale or for local roofing. The trade is experiencing a resurgence, not least because the resilience and long life of the slate ensured that building owners continued to demand the material and hence the craft and a few businesses survive to this day. The quality of the stone and its installers is exemplified by local company Claude N Smith, which both owns a mine and installs highquality roofs. One of the company’s restoration projects in nearby King’s Cliffe has been named by the NFRC as a finalist in the Heritage category of this year’s Roofing Awards. q www.ecclesiasticalandheritageworld.co.uk

Brand new ‘Grade One-listed’ building short listed for

Roofing Award

n THE PROJECT TO INSTALL the roofs on seven new houses at Stanmer House in Brighton was an unusual one, to say the least. The houses are built on the existing foundations of the old kitchen block at the 18th-century Palladian-style mansion, which was demolished when the repairs were deemed impracticable. However, the building materials and the style of the new build had to match the previous building as they form part of the Grade Onelisted property, together with the main house, which was built in 1723-4. The existing slates were carefully measured where the new ones were to join those already existing, so the correct sizes could be ordered. The contractor, Richard Soan Roofing Services, had delivered 46 tons of 20 to 12-inch Westmoreland slate and two tons of 26 to 22-inch. On completion of the project there was less than half-a-ton of surplus slates. Between the rafters Celotex insulation was fitted, leaving a 50mm air gap, and Klober air breather membrane was laid over the entire roof slopes,

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including the vertical cheeks, and temporarily secured with battens. The slates were removed from pallets, sorted into various lengths and individually holed. The coverage of each size of slate was carefully worked out and the batten gauges calculated to make the best possible use of the available slates. The slates were very carefully selected and laid to a random pattern, secured with 38, 45 and 50mm copper clout nails depending on the size of the slate. The verges were bedded in cement mortar containing sharp sand on a Westmoreland slate undercloak. The slating was neatly cut at valleys and hips.

Leadwork To the run-out gutter, Code 6 lead was laid on a Class A Moiststop underlay paper, which was in turn laid on top of the ply deck with timber rolls. On the sloping valleys a layer of Class A Moiststop paper was laid on timber lay boards and Code 5 lead dressed over the timber fillets. Lead hips and ridge were fitted – along with timber rolls – including Code 6 lead straps at 300 mm centres. At abutments, Code 3 lead soakers and Code 4 lead cover flashings were also fitted. The project has earned for Richard Soan Roofing Services the nomination as a finalist in the Roof Slating category of the 2013 Roofing Awards. A spokesman for the company commented: “As with most projects these days, we were provided with a very tight programme of works for this contract; but we are pleased to say we met our client’s requirements, even though at the start of the project we endured 10-days of lying snow. “This project enabled us to train several improvers and other skilled operatives in the laying of Westmoreland random slate roofing, which means in the future we will be able to undertake more of this type of work on a larger scale, if required. “Colin Kemp, who was our site manager for this project, is a Heritage Craft Roofer and he was able to pass on his expertise to all those working for us on the site. Colin’s attention to detail and the fact that he insists on everything being 100% is a great testament to him. This is clearly displayed in the craftsmanship achieved on this project, which quite simply is outstanding.” The company are looking to repeat the success it had last year with the project at nearby Folkington Manor, when it scooped the award in the same category. That is in addition to Gold Awards for Health and Safety from the NFRC in 2012, 2011 and 2010. q

Roofers in line to be made

kings of the castle n WHEN TENDERS WERE BEING submitted for the restoration of Lowther Castle in Cumbria, it made sense when considering the roofing contract to approach the only company in the county on the NFRC’s National Heritage Roofing Contractor Register – Cumbria Roofing North West Ltd. In fact all three companies bidding for the project did just that and when Patton Construction from Ballymena in Ireland was awarded the contract it was Cumbria Roofing they employed. When the project started in May 2011, the first works were to make the roof structure safe so the Westmorland slate could be removed. That was completed in late June, allowing the joinery works to begin. Kevin Musson of Cumbria Roofing takes up the story: “Starting on the east range section and moving round the horseshoe structure, we moved on to the east quadrant roof. As you can see [from the pictures], this roof was not straightforward as every slate had to be dressed and cut at an angle to allow the slate to fit.” After the clock tower, which was pretty straightforward, they moved on to the west quadrant. That was the same as the east: slow work. However, with a hard winter behind them they progressed to the west range. Kevin Musson continues: “The joiners are making steady headway with the turrets: 22 in all – code 8 lead. We have arms like steel but on we go.” Next is the sculpture gallery roof, with all the shoring work to the ornate plaster ceiling done. Some of the sheet lead has been stolen. “A sign of the times,” remarked Kevin, “but it saved us some work and luckily there was no damage to the ceiling.” By late July last year all the leadwork on the sculpture gallery roof was completed and the final touches added to the parapet gutters on the west and east range roofs. By late November there was just the ornate lead rainwater goods to replace, which arrived on site from the company’s workshop where

they had been overhauled and repaired – just in time for everyone to enjoy Christmas with the job done. Not only was it ‘job done’, but done to such a high standard it has been shortlisted in the Heritage category of the 2013 Roofing Awards. q

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York roofing firm’s triple success

n A YORK FAMILY ROOFING company has double reason to celebrate after reaching the finals of two prestigious national competitions. Geoff Neal Roofing (GNR) Limited is one of only six UK roofing companies to reach the finals of the Specialists Awards, run by Construction News and the National Specialist Contractors Council to highlight the vital role of specialist contractors in construction. The winners were announced at a presentation held at London’s Hilton Metropole in March – GNR did not win but were runners up. The company is also one of four finalists in the 2013 Roofing Awards in the Fully Supported Metal category. They were selected for both awards for a £117,000 renovation project to re-open a 15th century church, St Mary’s Church at Watton, East Yorkshire, which was forced to close in 2011 following the theft of its lead roof. The five-month project, managed by Chartered Architects Ferrey and Mennim, involved installing a new terne-coated steel roof as well as renovating ancient timbers and replacing leadwork, brickwork and masonry. The project demanded specialist, heritage roofing expertise as well as close co-ordination

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with the architects, English Heritage and the Parochial Church Council. The company is also celebrating the success of one apprentice who is among only four young leadworkers from across the UK to reach the finals of the national Young Leadworker of the Year contest. The competition is run by the Lead Sheet Association, a professional body at the forefront of training and technical advice in the use of rolled sheet lead in construction. James Lloyd-Hughes (24) joined GNR in 2011 and is now in the third year of his Heritage Specialist Apprenticeship Programme NVQ Level 2 in Leadwork. The overall winner will be announced at London’s Park Lane Hilton on Friday 17th May at the NFRC Roofing awards. “We pride ourselves on delivering outstanding craftsmanship and excellent service for our clients,” said Managing Director, Geoff Neal, ”so it’s very heartening to receive such prestigious industry recognition for our work. “We know that our success depends on having an exceptional team which is why we’re committed to investing in the training and development of all our employees. We’re delighted at the success James has achieved so far!” q

Martin-Brooks honoured for heritage skills n SHEFFIELD BASED ROOFING SPECIALISTS, Martin-Brooks, has received national industry recognition for the quality of its work in the heritage sector. The company is a finalist in the Heritage category at The Roofing Awards 2013 for the complete re-roof of Grade II listed St Barnabas Church in Bradwell, Derbyshire. Martin-Brooks removed all of the Westmorland slates from the nave roof at Saint Barnabas, before redressing and reusing them on the chancel and vestry. The nave was then recovered in new green Westmorland slate sourced from Elterwater Quarry in the Lake District. In keeping with its 1872 construction, the slates forming Saint Barnabas’ new roof were nailed to battens and secured with lime mortar by Martin-Brooks’ heritage craftsmen. To maintain its authenticity, no under felt was used, which meant considerable care had to be taken to ensure the church remained watertight whilst work was taking place.

The work being carried out on Saint Barnabas Church in Bradwell developed hundreds of years ago. The new roof at Saint Barnabas looks fabulous and the Westmorland slate really complements the dramatic landscape that surrounds the village of Bradwell.” Martin-Brooks is no stranger to the NFRC awards, having been nominated in the Heritage category in 2010 and 2011. Last year, the firm won the flat roofing Safety in Roofing Award and has achieved the gold standard for its health and safety performance for the last five years. q • For further information about Martin-Brooks’ heritage work, telephone (0114) 244 7720 or visit www.martin-brooks.co.uk.

Nick Brooks, a director at Martin-Brooks, said: “As the NFRC has more than 3,000 members, it is an achievement in itself to reach the final four in the Heritage category. We look after a wide range of prestigious historic buildings, so being nominated for our efforts at St Barnabas, a local village church, demonstrates the outstanding level of workmanship that goes into each and every project.” The reroof at Saint Barnabas was carried out as part of an English Heritage grant and were co-ordinated by Bakewell architects, Smith and Roper, with whom Martin-Brooks has worked on numerous heritage projects. Dale Wright, Martin-Brooks’ contracts director, said: “Despite atrocious weather conditions, our craftsmen have demonstrated that an excellent finish can still be achieved using skills and techniques

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Positive mood at 2013 LCA Directory launch n AN AUDIENCE OF SOME 70 architects and contractors attended the launch of the 2013 LCA Directory at the Institute of Materials Minerals and Mining in London last month and heard a very upbeat message from several speakers. Douglas Weston CBE, CEO of the Lead Sheet Association (LSA), was particularly buoyant about the industry’s fight back against the general severe downturn in construction, compounded for the lead sheet sector by high London Metal Exchange prices, the high profile epidemic of lead theft and campaigns by alternative materials claiming to rival the many environmental and long term performance attributes of rolled lead sheet. The LSA now had six regional marketing managers covering the country and had just recruited a new technical officer and marketing / admin manager. Their target was to make 3,000 professional contacts during the course of the year, double the number made in 2012, supported by 30 RIBA-approved CPD presentations to architects and specifiers every month. Doug said the LSA was challenging the claims of so-called ‘lead substitute’ products and said they still had some way to go to beat lead’s unrivalled longevity. The BRE Green Guide had given lead an ‘A’ or ‘A+’ rating after a series of tests which proved lead sheet had the lowest carbon footprint of materials used in UK construction. Fire Research at Warrington had given lead sheet a Class 1 Certificate after establishing its excellent performance in flame spread, ignitability and toxicity tests. The LSA were also supporting or appearing at a series of roadshows, events and exhibitions to continue the promotion of the good news about using lead sheet, including the significant drop in metal theft as the actions taken to combat this plague that had afflicted the industry over the past few years began to bite. Doug finished his very positive presentation by summarising the extensive media and promotions assault the LSA was continuing to wage against the many negative myths raised by rivals and to put the record straight with regard to the specification and use of lead sheet, which remained the best long term value for money product available in UK construction. Earlier, even the warning by Dr Alistair Davidson from the International Lead Association that the EC was again looking negatively at the use of lead sheet in construction was given a positive spin. LCA Secretary Ray Robertson pointed out the potential advantages for LCA members if, in a worst case scenario, lead sheet was to be treated as a controlled substance, as LCA members could demonstrate all the quality controls and health checks necessary to qualify as authorised users. The event concluded with the presentation of the Murdoch Award

Northwest Lead won the 2012 Murdoch Award for their restoration work on the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery.

and Murdoch Sponsors Award to the respective 2012 winners. V McKee Plumbing stepped up to receive the Sponsors Award for the third time from Rod Bexson of Associated Lead Mills who had created the award in 2006 to recognise the smaller lead projects, those under 5 tonnes. The Murdoch Award itself had been sponsored by Associated Lead Mills since 2005 and they were delighted that Dick Murdoch was there in person to present the award to the 2012 winner, Northwest Lead for their restoration work on the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery. q

V McKee Plumbing received the Sponsors Award for Cokehurst, a private house extension in Kent www.ecclesiasticalandheritageworld.co.uk

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Controlling your heating can save more than money n ACCORDING TO THE CHURCH of England, 25% of churches can make simple savings using heating controls and churches can possibly even become ‘zero carbon’. Those were just two key facts that emerged from presentations by contributors to the Heating without the Hot Air conference at the end of last year. Keeping an historic church warm for community use while conserving its heritage features and minimising the environmental impact is a real challenge, especially at a time of rising energy prices. Rev Nigel Cooper of the Church Buildings Council said: “With so many homes and shops kept so warm, it is no wonder many parishes are aiming to heat their churches to look after congregations. This is no easy task though and churches need help and advice as they formulate effective solutions.” In light of that, and following the recent cold snap, churches are being encouraged to monitor their energy usage as part of the Shrinking the Footprint national energy audit. They can do that with the aid of sMeasure – a free, easy-to-use toolkit. Available from Shrinking the Footprint, it enables all church buildings – both historic and modern – to understand and reduce energy use and costs along with cutting their carbon footprint. The online tool simply requires regular meter readings to be submitted. Users will also be provided with tips for saving money and reducing their carbon footprint. Staff support and advice in energy monitoring and reduction are available as well as technical help. The Bishop of London, Dr Richard Chartres, is chair of Shrinking the Footprint. He said: “It is a God-given imperative that we guard the earth for future generations. This energy audit aims to build a better understanding of our energy usage and total carbon footprint for our

national network of 16,000 parish churches, so we can support energy saving actions and meet our commitment to protecting God’s creation.” The Diocese of London has been measuring and monitoring the energy use of its churches since 2005 through its annual return, and has been using the diocese’s bespoke system of Energy-saving Benchmarking. Cumulative year-on-year savings of 3% in energy use and carbon emissions have been recorded. Energy-saving Benchmarking will sit alongside the sMeasure online energy monitoring tool, with the aim of combining them into a fully integrated Church of England system. q

How do you heat ancient fabric? n When it comes to heating ancient churches, the fundamental principles affecting any heritage building apply: the heating must not damage the fabric of the building, yet it is essential the building can be used. According to English Heritage guidance on the subject published last year, the best means of heating an ancient church remains a ‘wet system’, whereby hot water is pumped around pipes into radiators. Such systems are “…most suited to maintaining the building at a constant temperature and can be adjusted as necessary.” When it comes to installing a new system, the guidance advocates using what is already in place. “Many places of worship retain 19th or early 20th century under-floor ducts or radiators and these should be re-used whenever possible.” An increasingly popular method is underfloor heating, which can provide a background level of heating which is “beneficial for the conservation of historic fabric”. A further advantage in environmental terms is that they can be used successfully in conjunction with ground and air source heat pumps. Installation of underfloor heating,

however, requires either taking up the floor or installing a new one over the top. Care must also be taken to avoid disturbing archaeological remains. In any event, a full survey should be undertaken firstly by an architect and specialist

contractor and where appropriate the necessary permissions or faculties obtained. q • Information taken from New Work in Historic Places of Worship, published by English Heritage, www.english-heritage.org.uk.

It really is a case of all gas and gaiters! n Despite the increasing availability and efficiency of renewable energy sources, the consensus among professionals is that gas remains the fuel of choice for most church heating systems. Modern technological developments mean an efficiency rate of more than 90% is achievable by some of the new convector heaters, while control systems ensure optimum use of fuel for a building’s use. Many ‘learn’ the time taken to bring the building to temperature and adjust their own start time accordingly, while ‘room sealed’ units do not require the combustion gases to be heated. They represent a preferred solution where wall openings are not a planning issue. Many stand-alone units can now also be fuelled by liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), which has been described as ‘the closest alternative to mains gas’. In areas where there is no mains gas, for example in remote rural areas or coalfields, it has the lowest CO2 emissions of any fossil fuel available (according to suppliers Calor). It can be stored in cylinders or in a tank – above or below ground – and is delivered via a pipeline. q www.ecclesiasticalandheritageworld.co.uk

A heating system to meet your church’s specific needs With systems ranging from natural gas, oil and LPG, Manchester based HeatinGlobal Ltd are specialists in designing, planning and installing church heating systems specifically designed to meet the individual requirements of any church or place of worship. Here we take a look at two of their latest – and very different – projects. ST JOHNS CHURCH, GOLCAR, HUDDERSFIELD

ST MARYS CHURCH, HADDENHAM, BUCKS

n ST JOHNS CHURCH CONTACTED HeatinGlobal with the task of installing a full new system for the church. The church community room was used on a daily basis and the heating system needed splitting into three zones as the boiler also had to provide instant hot water to a well used kitchen and toilet area. The task was not to disturb any of the classes and meetings arranged by the church as this would have resulted in a loss of revenue for the church. Service manager Damien Bradbury said: “We had to choose our working hours carefully in this area of the church to ensure things were completed on time and no disruptions were made in the community area. The main worship area was split into two zones – the balcony area and the lower church.” The old boiler was removed along with all the old cast sectional pipes and radiators. A new energy efficient boiler system was installed together with new trench heating in the nave, triple panel radiators down the side walls and chancel and double panel radiators on the balcony area. The vestry room was heated via a stand alone Drugasar heater that provided enough heat to protect the fabric of the building and keep away damp and frost. The new trench heaters were insulated by 50mm foil back boards allowing good air flows and no heat loss through the floor space. The boiler house was sealed off from the flow of cold air coming in through the floor ducts and new controllable thermostats were installed in the church for maximum control and comfort. From start to finish the project took just five weeks to complete. Church Warden Jeremy Cuss said: “A very professional job completed, I would not have any issues recommending your company and we will be having you back to complete the annual maintenance checks.” q

n HEATINGLOBAL WERE CONTACTED by St Marys Church about some professional advice over their heating system. The existing system was diesel fired and was expensive to run. “We gave the church various options on how to increase overall heat output and reduce running costs,” said service manager Damien Bradbury. “The final decision was taken by the church committee to have a new natural gas line installed to the church. The existing boiler was broken down into sections and removed along with the existing diesel tank. “A decision was made to re-use a lot of the existing cast sectional radiators and add on new triple panel convected radiators, giving the church more heat output and an even distribution. The existing pew area was a cold spot for the church and so we installed new fin coils along with a new solid oak runner track for easy access and a professional look. “The high alter area was also suffering from a cold spot, mainly being created by the large stained glass window. Here we installed a new heating loop which allowed a steady flow of warm air to rise up and over the window creating an air curtain, keeping cold air out and warm air in.” The system was completely power flushed, chemical tested and balanced and the church now estimate to save around £3,000 per annum. St Mary’s Church Warden, Graham Tyak had this to say: “The project was due to run over a three week period, but with the hard work and effort put in by all the lads they completed the whole project in just six days. We were certainly very impressed!” q

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Sun shines on energy generation n ALTERNATIVE OR RENEWABLE energy sources have been much in the news recently, with changes to the feed-in tariff causing a great deal of comment. There are still, however, good reasons for churches to adopt renewable energy sources, one of which is a direct result of the traditional design of the building. The fact that churches are orientated east-west means there is a large roof area facing south. Provided the roof is not overhung or obstructed, that provides a good starting point for solar power generation. Solar panel comparison site The Eco Experts details a number of other factors to take into consideration. “The roof structure and tiles must be strong enough to support a solar panel array with a typical weight of 30-60kg per panel, depending on the type of panel chosen. The roof must not be overshadowed by large trees, the church spire or other buildings as this reduces the amount of electricity generated. It's important to consider how to attach the panels to the roof without damaging the ancient slates underneath. Two ideas are to install the panels resting on ballast-filled boxes or to clamp the panels to the roof

using specially designed fittings.” When the church is a listed building there are further considerations. English Heritage states in its guidance: “The installation of either solar electric (photovoltaic) panels or solar ‘slates’ on a building will have a material affect on its external appearance and is therefore very likely to require planning permission. In the case of a listed place of worship it is very likely also to require listed building consent, or equivalent denominational consent.” q

NT embarks on renewables programme n THE NATIONAL TRUST HAS announced it is spending £3.5m on pilot projects to generate green energy, which if successful will see the implementation of a programme to generate 50% of its energy from renewable sources by 2020. The Trust’s Rural Enterprises Director Patrick Begg said: “Like householders everywhere we are facing rising energy bills. We spend more than £6m each year heating and powering the places in our care. “By investing in renewable energy production we can reduce our energy bills and invest more in vital conservation work around the country. It will put renewable energy at the heart of conservation.” q

Is 2013 the year for solar PV? n THE WORLD OF RENEWABLE energy has had lived through massive change and growth in the past three years. Evidence of the growing popularity and economic advantages of clean energy is visible wherever you look. The Government has openly declared that the UK has made a good start on its journey to a cleaner Britain. For 2013 the financial support of the Government for renewable technology will continue - not only for large scale projects such as wind farms, but also for the micro-generation of energy by householders and small enterprises. The Feed-in Tariff (FiT) for solar PV is still an attractive proposition and gives a good return on investment. Meanwhile biomass boilers are supported by the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI), and while that currently supports only commercial installations, the indications are it will be introduced to domestic schemes this year. A 4kW solar PV installation now costs approximately £7,000, installed by well qualified and skilled engineers with high quality equipment, 50% less than three years ago – and the work can be done within two days. The payback on such an installation is now seven to eight years, which represents a return on investment of approximately 13%, and is a far better rate of return than banks are offering. This payment is secured for 20 years and is index linked. Such an installation needs little care and further technology is available to increase the household savings by heating water as well as generating electricity. The results for 2012 are encouraging. Many solar PV owners have generated 15% – 20% above the target set by the standard calculation – in one of the wettest years on record! q www.ecclesiasticalandheritageworld.co.uk

ATLAS continues to support apprenticeships n THE ASSOCIATION OF TECHNICAL Lightning & Access Specialists (ATLAS) was delighted to support this year’s National Apprenticeship Week, which focussed on how ‘Apprenticeships Deliver’ to the benefit of both employers and individuals. Taking place for the sixth time, the event was an overwhelming success with employers across the UK pledging to recruit over 13,600 new apprentices. ATLAS members continue to develop the skills of their workforces by investing in apprenticeships delivered by the industry’s Steeplejack and Lightning Protection Training Group with the support of CITB. At the start of this year, a total of 25 candidates enrolled on 2-year apprenticeship programmes in steeplejacking and lightning protection engineering at the National Construction College in Bircham Newton. The apprentices are employed by ATLAS members including Central High Rise Ltd, Churchill Specialist Contracting Ltd, Delta Steeplejacks Ltd, Horizon Specialist Contracting Ltd, K2 Specialist Services (UK) Ltd, Nimbus Lightning Protection Ltd, Omega Red Group Ltd, P C Richardson & Co Ltd, Proteq (Northern) Ltd, Rafferty International Ltd, Sentinel Lightning Protection and Earthing Ltd, Stone Technical Services Ltd and Zenith SAS Ltd. Specialist access and lightning protection work requires highly specialist skills and last year ATLAS members undertook an average of

more than 2,300 hours of training. This commitment enables them to apply the latest skills, innovations and techniques to deliver the highest quality projects and it is a condition of ATLAS membership that companies are registered with CITB and their operatives have the appropriate CSCS or affiliated scheme cards for the jobs that they undertake on site. ATLAS President Graeme Fisher said: “ATLAS and its members recognise the value of apprenticeships in creating a competent and qualified workforce for the future as they give new entrants into the industry a great way of learning the specialist skills possessed by ATLAS members. This means that clients who use ATLAS members can be confident that they can undertake the full range of specialist access or lightning protection work to the highest quality standards.” ATLAS is proud to be sponsoring the Steeplejack and Lightning Protection Engineer categories at the National Construction College (NCC) East Apprentice Awards which will take place on 25 July 2013. q

Wudu ablution washing station joins specialist portfolio n WUDU LITERALLY MEANS CLEANING oneself in preparation for prayer. The communal act of washing before prayer is directed by the holy Quran. All Muslims must use clean water to wash hands and feet before performing salat (prayer) in Mosques, schools and places of Muslim worship all over the world. To make refitting or installing this important area as cost effective and efficient as possible, Franke Washroom Systems has added a new Wudu Ablution/Washing Station to its portfolio of stainless steel commercial products. The new Wudu increases its range of products designed for the particular needs of different religions and cultures. Based in Chesterfield, Franke Washroom Systems produces a diverse range of washroom and catering equipment for all types of commercial environments. Stainless steel products for religious buildings, educational establishments, clinical and general hospital requirements as well as prisons and custody centres are a specialism. These include all washroom requirements such as showers, basins, WCs, squat pans and urinals plus accessories such as water fountains and janitorial and commercial kitchen products. Much of the product range is produced here in the UK in Derbyshire at the company’s state of the art manufacturing plant. The new Franke Washroom Systems’ Wudu Ablution Washing Station range is made of highgrade 1.5mm 304 stainless steel with a satin finish. Wudu is available as a two person unit measuring 1200mm or alternatively as a single person unit measuring 700mm, but can A traditional Wudu be made to any length to suit. ablution area Each unit has 1 or 2 non-

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A Wudu washing area fitted with the new Wudu Ablution Station in a school in Derby

concussive (self-closing) Bib tap/s as well as a hinged grid that aids washing and which can be lifted for easy cleaning and maintenance. A washing station may be supplied in left or right hand versions and each has a domed waste with quick access to plumbing connections via a hidden access panel. Complementing seats are also available as an optional extra. q • For further information about the new WUDU Washing and Ablution Station or the entire product line-up from Franke Washroom Systems, please request a new 2013 product guide and price list from wsmarketing.gb@franke.com.

Miniature Cotswolds village is Grade Two-listed n ONE OF THE FIRST model villages in England has been given Grade Two-listed status by Heritage Minister Ed Vaizey on the recommendation of English Heritage. Built in 1936, Bourton-on-the-Water Model Village is a snapshot in miniature of a typically picturesque Cotswold village. It has been visited and enjoyed by generations and is now formally recognised through listing for its rarity, craftsmanship and historical value. Unlike most other miniature worlds it is an exact replica of the actual village it calls home. Unusually, it was built by local builders rather than model-makers, using authentic materials including locallyquarried limestone and miniature Cotswold stone slates. The models are so detailed visitors are even able to see pews inside the parish church through delicately traceried stained-glass windows and recognise the waterways flowing through the village that use running water from the village itself. Many of the original buildings in Bourton-

on-the-Water are themselves listed, the oldest dating back to the 17th century. The skill of the eight craftsmen who spent five years creating the model village is so great their work provides an accurate record of the buildings and historic village as a whole for future generations. Heritage Minister Ed Vaizey said: “This may be a highly unusual listing but it is no less worthy of its Grade II listed status. The craftsmanship involved in creating what is a hugely loved family attraction is second to none and I’m delighted that in listing we have preserved the work of the local people who built the model village and protected its history for future generations.” Mr and Mrs Morris, the couple behind the model village, wanted to create something to attract visitors to their pub, the Old New Inn – which is now also Grade Twolisted. Since it was first opened in 1937, to celebrate the Coronation of King George VI, it has become one of the most popular places to visit in the Cotswolds.

Deborah Williams, Head of Designation for the West at English Heritage, said “Bourton-on-the-Water model village has been a beloved family attraction for decades. As one of the first model villages, and with such excellent craftsmanship, this charming creation fully deserves Grade Two listing. Its value is greatly added to by the number of listed buildings the model village records and the fact it is set within the grounds of a Grade II listed pub.” q

Somerset church gets the Time Team treatment n IN MARCH THE CHURCHES Conservation Trust joined forces with Wessex Archaeology and members of Channel 4’s Time Team to undertake excavations underneath the main aisle of St Andrew’s Church in Holcombe, Somerset. The team also conducted a survey of the graveyard to record the epitaphs and memorial stones. It was the latest phase of Hidden Holcombe, a project initiated last year to find out more about the church and its surroundings. In contrast to most churches, which are located in the heart of their communities, St Andrew’s is in an isolated rural position a mile from Holcombe village. Archaeologists hope to shed light on whether the church, which dates back to 1100, could originally have been part of a medieval village that has since disappeared.

Budding archaeologists and people from the local area took part in the project through a range of free events and opportunities, including daily tours of the trench, artefact processing and learning how to survey a graveyard. Two adult skeletons and one child skeleton, all dating to the 18th century, were found buried beneath the church's central aisle. Other artefacts, including pottery and an entrance to a hitherto unknown crypt, were also found in the church. The final phase of the three-part project takes place in July with the launch of a new Young Archaeologists’ Club for Somerset in conjunction with Somerset County Council, Somerset Archaeology and Natural History Society and the Council for British Archaeology. q

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New installation lights the way for pilgrims O LASTINGHAM IN NORTH YORKSHIRE has been a place of pilgrimage for centuries, its church having been founded by St Cedd of Lindisfarne as a monastery in AD 654. Following his death, 10 years later, he was buried beside the altar of the original church. The founding of St Mary’s was described by the Venerable Bede and some of the decoratively carved Lastingham Stones date from the 8th century.

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Beneath the church is possibly the most remarkable crypt in Britain. It is certainly the most complete and the only one that has its own nave, apse and side aisles. Originally, the light in the crypt came primarily from candles or ‘tea lights’ placed on a temporary basis on top of the pillar bases, capitals, altar and altar rail. However, in 2011 the PCC and the Friends of Lastingham Church embarked on a project to upgrade the interior and install a new lighting system. Specialist church lighting designers Lighting Dynamics UK, worked with York-based architect Peter Gaze Pace to produce a new lighting scheme for the crypt. The brief was to devise a “…totally new lighting design and installation that would enhance the architectural features of this magnificent and unique Grade One-listed structure, whilst also providing illumination for the various liturgical services and numerous daily visitors”. The crypt has an extremely low roof line and a damp environment, especially during winter months, so careful consideration had to be given to the selection of the most appropriate lighting equipment and light sources. Other major factors were the restricted spaces where luminaires could be placed and the likely problem of heat, as generally all the luminaires would be within easy reach of visitors. The Diocese also placed severe restrictions on cable routes and required minimal disruption to the floor sections. The project team came to the conclusion that miniature MR 16-style, exterior grade luminaires, rated to IP 67, were the most appropriate choice – mounted in concealed positions where possible. The luminaires were supplied in a bespoke, RAL colour finish to blend in with the interior of the existing stonework. The latest generation of low-energy, high output MR 16-style LED light sources was specified throughout, with an overall colour temperature appropriate for the interior. In addition, special colour filters were introduced to add further accent to the colour tone. High-quality dimmable remote drivers were housed in a specially designed IP-rated enclosure. This protected cabinet is located in a side area in the crypt. All of the lighting is operated via a unique wireless dimming/scene-setting system with selection via either a wall-mounted keypad or a hand-held controller. A variety of pre-programmed scene selections are available for the various lighting tasks, providing maximum flexibility. Electrical installation was completed by A J Electrics (Coleshill) Ltd. The result is a pleasingly illuminated crypt providing an uncluttered environment. The lighting has been installed with minimal disruption or interference to the fabric of this ancient building, requiring minimal ongoing maintenance. R

Legislation requires equal access O IN 2010 THE EQUALITY Act came into force in England, Scotland and Wales. It replaced a number of separate pieces of legislation dealing with discrimination, including the Disability Discrimination Act, although that Act is still in force in Northern Ireland. The Act bans discrimination on grounds of age, race, sexuality, gender and disability in the areas of employment, provision of goods and services or the ‘management of premises’. In terms of disabled access, that includes church buildings and other premises. Crucially, it covers more than simply access to the building itself. The ‘provision of services’ in this case applies to the participation in church activities, whether that be worship, group activities or simply visiting the building. The Church of England’s Church Care site – which advises on the upkeep of churches in the C of E – has this to say about the Act: “Service providers have to take reasonable steps to change practice, policy or procedure which makes it impossible or unreasonably difficult for a disabled person to make use of its services. Use of premises by a disabled person must be anticipated and not left until the situation arises.” Significantly, that does not just apply to wheelchair access. The guidance goes on: “There is also a duty to take reasonable steps to provide auxiliary aids, things that will enable better use of a service by disabled persons. For example induction loops for hearing-aid users, handrails, or large-print service sheets.” Those kinds of adjustments are about welcoming disabled people into churches and other heritage buildings. An increasingly popular way of enjoying visits to heritage buildings is via audio guides, which are also an invaluable resource for people with visual impairments. Advances in technology and the availability of mp3 players and other portable devices mean any text can be transposed, from a castle guide to The Bible. A useful start point for any organisation is an audit of the accessibility of services. That could include the appointing of a professional consultancy. R

Making Church Accessible to All O Making Church Accessible to All is the title of a new book by Tony Phelps-Jones, director of ministry at Prospects, the organisation that works with people with learning difficulties. As the title implies, the book is about including disabled people in all aspects of church life. The first part of the book brings together Tony’s insights on the topic of inclusion, drawing on a lifetime of experience working with people with learning disabilities. The second part has chapters on including people with learning disability, autism, sight loss, hearing loss, mobility difficulty and mental health conditions as well as a chapter on including families with children who have additional needs. That chapter has been written by those with specialist experience, many of them with personal experience of the disability about which they have written. Tony and many of the other contributors work with or within partner organisations of Churches for All, the network of organisations for promoting disabled access to churches. The book is published by the Bible Reading Fellowship (ISBN 978-085746-157-5) and is available from BRF, Prospects and Through the Roof, a Christian charity working with disabled people in the UK and overseas. R

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Stone conquers repairs at

ancient Norman castle The Grade I listed Roch Castle in Haverfordwest, Pembrokeshire

O UK ecclesiastical restoration experts, Stone Technical Services, have completed an important project at one of Wales’ most historic castles. Roch Castle in Haverfordwest, Pembrokeshire has an illustrious history dating back to the 12th Century. The Grade 1 listed ancient monument was a Royalist stronghold during the Civil War and, having been updated and modernised internally, is used today for weddings, events and as a holiday retreat. As one of the UK’s leading historic restoration and maintenance experts, Stone Technical Services has carried out around £10,000 worth of work for owners, the Retreats Group, to repair and restore the castle’s historic windows. The ancient nature – and current use – of Roch Castle required a sensitively executed project, lasting just over a week, to ensure

little or no disruption and in-keeping with the Norman castle’s historic beauty. Stone’s restoration experts used a powered access cradle suspended from the castle’s roof, using a counter-balanced weight system, to reach the high-level windows. Stone-coloured Dow Corning 791 sealant was used for the repair over point-mastic and lime mortar to ensure the best, long-lasting finish. Stone Technical Services is a UK leader in the field of historic restoration, repair and renovation as well as lightning protection and general facilities management. The company has offices in Edinburgh, London, Middlesex and Cheshire as well as its HQ in County Durham. Their impressive client list includes English Heritage, the National Trust and British Waterways, to name a few. In addition, Stone is the approved contractor managing

lightning protection on St Paul’s Cathedral and works with housing associations, historic structures, churches, war memorials, schools, offices, car parks and councils. Stone’s managing director, Dave Stone, said: “Sensitive restoration and repair is one of our specialist areas. It’s a rare skill and requires careful planning and execution to ensure little or no disruption. All projects of this nature are carried out without the need for costly and disruptive scaffolds – we use access systems that get the job done discreetly and efficiently. “All of our heritage masons are qualified to the highest industry standards and have vast experience of working on projects such as this at Roch Castle. Whether it’s a full renovation or general repairs to roofs, windows, guttering or masonry, we can provide a solution for any historic or ancient structure.” R www.ecclesiasticalandheritageworld.co.uk

Saint-Gobain Weber monocouche render brings new life to Gosford Castle

Gosford Castle, County Armagh n MODERN MONOCOUCHE RENDER BY Saint-Gobain Weber, the leading manufacturer and formulator of innovative materials for the construction industry, has been specified in the exceptional restoration project of 19th century Gosford Castle, County Armagh. Once the largest private houses in Ireland, the castle has been rescued from dereliction and is now an exclusive community of 23 individually designed homes created within the fabric of the original building. A+ Green Guide rated weber.pral D by Saint-Gobain Weber has been spray applied to the interior walls of the three-storey Bastion Gate which has an imposing portcullis entrance, high arched ceilings and fine, intricate detail work. This through-coloured render incorporates innovative One-Coat Technology which is recognised for its contribution to minimising programme works. By reducing the drying time associated with a traditional two coat system by as much as 50%, on-site labour and the cost of equipment are both greatly reduced which has helped with the demanding completion schedule of the Bastion Gate. Saint-Gobain Weber is the first producer of monocouche renders to be awarded an A+ rating as defined in the BRE Global 2008 Green Guide to Specification. These audited materials help specifiers to make selections that will collectively reduce the environmental impact of their buildings. Main contractor Samuel Millar, of Randalstown, County Antrim, has undertaken the interior refurbishment of the walls and ceilings in just five months. Sam Millar, managing director, comments: “This has been a really labour intensive project but it looks magnificent and my applicators are very proud of the finish we have achieved. We normally work on new, modern buildings where

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dimensions are true and walls are straight so this has been a challenging project.” “Everything about this render is perfect for us – it’s quick and easy to apply, suitable for spray application, and achieves a perfect finish. Just brilliant, we can’t fault it,” said Michael Martin, render applicator at Millar Construction. “We’ve used other brands but they are unworkable by comparison and couldn’t have been used in this specialist application, especially on the ceilings.” In the Bastion Gate, authentic colours of Chalk, Sand, Earth Red and Stone Grey have been used to replicate the original colour schemes in the principal rooms which have recaptured the bright atmosphere of the castle in its prime. Leading London architect Thomas Hopper was commissioned to create Gosford Castle in 1819. This family home, which has 197 rooms, took 20 years to complete and was designed in the Norman Revival style. The castle walls are finished in granite while pink marble was designed into much of the interior. Local masters were responsible for the construction of the marble columns while local craftsmen and materials were employed for the wood panelling and carvings. The vaulted ceilings were picked out with gold paint and Italian plasterers created

many of the magnificent ceilings. Gosford Castle has seen a variety of uses over its lifetime, from a military billet to the winter base of a travelling circus. It remained derelict until 2006 when it was rescued by a local businessman who, with specialist architects and the Northern Ireland Heritage Service, saved the fabric of the building restoring it to its former glory. Saint-Gobain Weber’s renders are manufactured in Bedfordshire and Shropshire providing local manufacture, while reduced transportation mileage and CO2 emissions contribute to the company’s sustainability and environmental policies. q • For further information about this project, or for technical support, please call Saint-Gobain Weber on 08703 330 070 or 028 9335 2999 in Ireland. Visit www.netweber.co.uk for a free download of literature and the new weber app. The download for iPhone and iPad users is available from the iTunes app store and from Google Play for android smartphones and tablets. Follow Saint-Gobain Weber on Twitter @sgweberuk for the latest company news and updates.

ANTIQUE FURNITURE RESTORATION

BELLS

BIRD PROOFING

ARCHIVE STORAGE BOXES

BUILDING CONSERVATION & RESTORATION ASBESTOS

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CARVERS

MASTER CARVERS ASSOCIATION

BUILDING SERVICES

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CHURCH HEATING

CONSERVATION STORAGE

DAMP PROOFING CHURCH SUPPLIES

DISABLED ACCESS

EARTHING

ELECTRICAL CONSULTANTS

CLOCKS

ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING

EXHUMATION SERVICES

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FENCING

JOINERY

LANDSCAPING FIREPLACES

FURNITURE

LEADED LIGHTS

GILDERS & RESTORERS

GUILD OF MASTERCRAFTSMEN

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LEADWORK

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LIGHTING & SOUND

LIGHTNING PROTECTION

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MORTAR SUPPLIES THE STEEPLEJACK AND LIGHTNING PROTECTION TRAINING GROUP

ORGANS

LIME

METAL SUPPLIES

PAINTING CONSERVATION

PHOTOGRAPHY

PLASTERERS

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ROOFING

FTMRC

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ROOF TILES

SASH WINDOWS

SCULPTURAL METALWORK

SIGNS

SOUND & AUDIO VISUAL SYSTEMS

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STAINED GLASS

STONE SUPPLY

STOVES

STONE SUNDIALS

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SURVEYS

TRANSPORT & STORAGE

TERRACOTTA TREE SURGERY & CONSULTANCY

TESTING AND CONSULTANCY

WEB DESIGN

TIMBER RESTORATION

TRADITIONAL BUILDING SERVICES WROUGHT IRON

TRAINING