Ecclesiastical & Heritage World Issue No. 85

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COVER STORY

CONTENTS Church service streaming just got CREATIVE

An increasing amount of space in this publication is being devoted to the explosion in streaming of service by churches in response to the COVID-19 restrictions on public worship.

We are fortunate in having some of the most accomplished experts in the country provide examples of systems they have installed, while explaining what the issues are that need to be addressed. They include Creative Audio-Visual Solutions (CAVS) of Hertfordshire.

The front cover of this issue shows St James’s Church in Bushey, a traditional Anglican church and one of three very different installations carried out by CAVS recently. They also include a Bible college and a more modern United Reformed Church.

Read about all of those projects from page 10

5 Reflections NEWS 6 Church buildings provide a £12.4bn

‘National Help Service’ to UK 6 Concrete pour achieves Jodrell Bank

roof installation 7 Heritage register: more added this

year than taken off 8 Churches extend a warm welcome

to their communities 8 Derby’s best-known family business

clocks up triple awards success 9 Remains of Scotland’s oldest bridge found STREAMING 12 Streaming guidance updated for lockdown2 12 Streaming kit connects priest and parish 13 Easy-to-use streaming solution

reaches the COVID congregation 14 Looking to the future through a high

definition lens SOUND AND AV SYSTEMS 15 Name change reflects developments 15 Fingers are crossed for 2021 show 16 Legacy allows church to modernise

its sound and video STAINED GLASS 17 Hospital’s Victorian stained glass is replaced

19 CRE gets the message across – At Home 19 Prayers sought for upcoming events

CHURCH FURNITURE 20 New furniture adds a new element

to worship

RESTORATION PROJECTS 41 Engineers oversee Minster’s on going restoration

ACCESS 21 Seven Principles: a safety-first

approach to making COVID

changes accessible

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CHURCH LIGHTING 23 Long experience leads to a unique

appreciation of today’s lighting needs 24 Careful consideration of options

lights the way for Wirral church MEMORIALS 26 Trust administers fund to ensure

their names live on 27 Memorial gun restored as tribute to

VC’s valour 28 Desert memorial merits its place on shortlist 30 Steam clean brings clarity to Herts memorial ROOFING & LEADWORK 31 Leadwork demonstrates what can be achieved 31 Training centre stays open through lockdown 32 Murdoch Awards go online with

video presentations 33 Training centre of excellence for

roofers opens in Salford 35 Roofs top off restoration projects

ahead of City of Culture year 36 New for old: for cast iron this is the

top team 37 First roofers become accredited 37 Award-nominated cathedral work

benefits from landfill grant 38 Residential conversion is a Roofing

Award contender RENEWABLE ENERGY 40 What are the concerns when you

source your heat from the ground?

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Town Hall is set for revamp To access a bridge for restoration, they built another one!

Castle restoration paves the way to a grand reopening

LIGHTNING PROTECTION 44 Hidden effects of lightning strikes

keep lighting experts busy 45 Campaign aims to make keeping

buildings safe easier 45 Nostra culpa!

LIME 46

How can we rise to the new challenge of carbon neutral by 2030?

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IRONWORK & METALWORK 49 Work begins on world-famous chain bridge 49 Teen blacksmith wows them in Lancashire

FIND THE PRODUCT OR SERVICE YOU NEED IN CHURCH & HERITAGE SUPPLIES FROM PAGE 50 Richard Shepherd – Business Development Manager Advertising enquiries: 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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[THIS COLUMN is being written the day after an eerily quiet Remembrance Sunday. The War Memorial across the road from my home was deserted all day save for the cadets and ex-servicemen laying the wreaths, and the BBC broadcast pictures of an empty Whitehall in its news bulletins.

It seems particularly apt, then, that this issue should feature a number of War Memorials that have been receiving the care and attention they deserve. They range from the recognition of the bravery of one man in World War One to a memorial alongside the graves of those who fell in the North Africa campaign in World War Two.

• That latter is in El Alamein and its reroofing project was shortlisted for the 2020 Roofing Awards, which did not take place. It joins the other nominated projects in being added to those for the 2021 awards. We look forward to the announcement of the 2021 shortlist – together they will make a formidable array for the judges to pick their way through.

• One awards ceremony that did take place was the Lead Contractors Association’s Murdoch Awards. The online event took the form of three videos showcasing the finalists in the three awards created to honour Richard Murdoch – known as ‘Mr Lead’. The videos culminated in the announcement of the winning projects.

• One of the qualities of lead as a building material is its environmental friendliness. Environmental considerations are at the forefront of thinking in both the design of new church buildings and the restoration of heritage buildings. Traditional materials such as lead and lime have a head start in that direction. They can be combined with modern innovations such as heat pumps to light the path to zero carbon.

However, good intentions can also pave the path to Hell, and careful consideration needs to be given to any plan to move to heat pumps. We have an expert’s view on some of the advantages and pitfalls.

• The future of ecclesiastical and heritage buildings post-COVID also has to take into account the needs of people using them. In particular, access issues have to be addressed to ensure the maximum inclusivity as buildings open up after lockdown. Any changes that have to be made to encompass social distancing or hygiene requirements, for example, must not impede people with disabilities. What is a handy foot pump on a hand sanitiser for one person could make it unusable for another.

• All the panoply associated with post-COVID adjustments and access aids are the stock-in-trade of Christian Resources Exhibitions.

This year CRE became yet another victim of the pandemic itself; however, spurred on by the example of St Paul the show became a virtual showcase, with goods and services listed in a catalogue and the seminar programme Zoomed into people’s homes.

• Zoom is just one way the ecclesiastical community has found to continue to communicate with its flock in these trying times. Live streaming of services has become the mainstream, with the provision of the kit to do it evolving into an industry in itself. There is a lot more to it than just logging in and talking into your tablet (or laptop if you are as far behind the curve as me).

There is a lot of good advice around and we have tried to point the way. Plus, we showcase a number of notable systems that have been installed recently.

In particular, Creative Audio-Visual Solutions have notched up a trio of installations, one of which graces the front cover of this issue. q

Chris Stokes

Editor, Ecclesiastical & Heritage World

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Church buildings provide a £12.4bn ‘National Help Service’ to UK [A REPORT FROM the National Churches Trust (NCT) has

highlighted the UK’s increasing reliance on mainly volunteer-led services, including food banks, mental health counselling and youth groups based in churches, chapels and meeting houses.

The House of Good report has hailed the nation’s church buildings as a ‘National Help Service’ after finding they provided £12.4bn worth of essential social and economic support to local communities during the 12 months up until May 2020.

The report found that church buildings are a ready-made network of responsive hubs providing increasing levels of care and wellbeing to local communities throughout the UK. The majority of churches found a way to provide community support during the COVID-19 pandemic, but the report warns that many of their buildings are under threat – especially in towns and cities, where they deliver the most value – as support for essential maintenance and repair from government and other funding bodies dries up.

NCT chief executive Claire Walker explained: “During the COVID-19 pandemic church buildings were placed in the same category as gyms and cinemas and forced to lock down. But for the most vulnerable in our society the support church buildings offer is not a recreational choice; it’s an essential need – and lockdown served to highlight the increasing reliance of people on this support. These buildings have become our National Help Service.

“But this is a National Help Service that we risk losing and may never be able to replace if these buildings do not get the financial support they need. Each year we receive thousands of requests for help from churches desperately in need of repairing the roof, or installing kitchen facilities and toilets, but we are only able to fund a quarter of these. For

this reason we are urgently calling on local and national government and the National Lottery Heritage Fund to recognise the continuing need for their support.”

Most Revd Justin Welby, Archbishop of Canterbury, and Most Revd Stephen Cottrell, Archbishop of York, who are joint presidents of the NCT, said in a statement: “The value that church buildings provide in offering a space where all are welcomed and loved might be priceless; but looking after them has a very large cost. This report makes the argument for why it is appropriate for church-based community services to be funded by national government.” q

Concrete pour achieves Jodrell Bank roof installation

[A MAJOR CONSTRUCTION milestone was reached at Jodrell

Bank in Cheshire in October with the installation of the concrete dome roof of its new First Light Pavilion.

The pavilion, designed by HASSELL and set to open to the public next year, forms part of a major new project that will share and celebrate the pioneering heritage of Jodrell Bank, the UK’s latest UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The installation was a unique accomplishment of construction and engineering as 381m3 of concrete was poured into a mould spanning 50m to create the single structure domed roof. The continuous concrete pour was the first of its kind in over 25 years and took 10 hours and 15 minutes to complete, assisted by 59 COVID-compliant operatives on site.

Ryan Southern of Kier Construction, who are leading the ambitious build, said of the moment: “The concrete pour for the dome structure represented a big moment in the project and took a lot of careful planning to ensure its success. It involved a complex methodology, so we’re delighted to see this important stage of the construction come together so well. We must also thank our supply chain, Mayo Civils, for their efforts.” q

Helixcopters Ltd

Drone photographic, survey and inspection services T: 01923 671433 M: 07905 126356 E: info@helixcopters.org W: www.helixcopters.org

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Heritage register: more added this year than taken off [ON 15 OCTOBER Historic England published its Heritage at Risk

Register 2020. Published annually, the register provides an annual snapshot of the critical health of England’s most valued historic places and those most at risk of being lost.

Over the past year, 181 historic buildings and sites have been saved, thanks to the determination of local communities, charities, owners, local councils and Historic England. Examples include an 800-yearold footpath in North Yorkshire, which was once used by Cistercian monks to transport goods and has been saved by a local history group. Newington Green Unitarian Church in London, where Mary Wollstonecraft – the ‘Mother of Feminism’ – worshipped has been restored thanks in large part to the congregation’s dedication, and the lush hillfort at Cadbury in Somerset – which is thought by some to be King Arthur’s lost Camelot – has been restored thanks to essential partnership working.

Historic England’s chief executive Duncan Wilson commented: “It is the varied tapestry of our historic places that helps us define who we are.

In testing times such as these, heritage can give us a sense of continuity and bring us solace. We also know that investing in historic places can help boost our economic recovery. The 181 places rescued from the

Cadbury Castle in Somerset, thought by some to be Arthur’s Camelot

Newington Green Unitarian Church, where Mary Wolstenecraft worshipped register this year show us that good progress is being made, but there is still a long way to go. Many more historic buildings and places need caring for, financial support, strong partnership working and community engagement to give them a brighter future.”

Unfortunately, although across the country 181 entries have been removed from the register for positive reasons, 216 entries have been added because of concerns about their condition. In total, there are 5,097 entries on the Heritage at Risk Register 2020 – 24 more than in 2019. That marks a change in direction from recent years, which saw more buildings removed than added.

The list includes 1,475 buildings or structures, that is Grade One and Two*-listed buildings and structural scheduled monuments across England, plus Grade Two-listed buildings in London. In addition, there are 932 places of worship, 2,090 archaeology entries (non-structural scheduled monuments), 103 parks and gardens, three battlefields, three protected wreck sites and 491 conservation areas.

Historic England adds a caveat to the comprehensive analysis possible: “Due to the restrictions of COVID-19 we have only been able to assess sites and collect data where it has been safe to do so. This has given us a helpful temperature check of the condition of our historic environment in the last 12 months, but it has not been possible to carry out analysis of trends as we have in previous years.” q

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Churches extend a warm welcome to their communities [

AS MORE AND MORE churches undertake projects to extend their facilities to the wider communities and to parishioners with disabilities, so the need to upgrade and extend their heating systems becomes apparent.

One such church is St Margaret’s in Wrenbury, Cheshire. The church, a Grade Two*-listed 15th century sandstone building with unique box pews, is benefitting from an extension to allow it to better serve the local community.

To enable the extension to be heated, an upgrade to the heating system is currently being installed by specialist firm Mellor and Mottram.

The new condensing boilers are to be oil fired and are designed to allow the maximum efficiency to be derived from that fuel.

Oil is also the preferred fuel for the new boilers soon to be installed by Mellor and Mottram at the Grade Two*-listed St Mary’s Church in Bosley, part of the Peak Parishes Benefice – also in Cheshire.

The church is also constructing an extension to enable the wider community to use the building. It will provide accessible toilets, babychanging facilities and a kitchen.

The church is the only available space for the village community to use and the extension is designed to allow the church to fill that role.

A more familiar installation for Mellor and Mottram was the Grade One-listed Collegiate Church of St Mary in Stafford (left).

That upgrade, recently completed, is in the form two Remeha Quinta 115 condensing boilers (pictured), together with circulation pump. The system has also been flushed and treated with a corrosion inhibitor.

The trio of churches, sited close to company’s base in Stoke-on-Trent, are the latest in a succession of jobs the company has secured in the North Midlands and North West, as churches seek to offer a warm welcome to their restricted congregations in what is looking to become the bleakest of winters. q • For further information call 0800 644 6240 or visit the website at www.mellorandmottram.com.

Derby’s best-known family business clocks up triple awards success [THERE WAS A triple celebration

enthusiastic and growing band of talented young clockmakers at the Family Business of the Year as part of an award-winning Awards for Smith of Derby Ltd, who apprenticeship programme. scooped no fewer than three awards Standing proud and together – including the top award. on the podium, alongside many The awards are a celebration of incredible family businesses, British family-owned businesses Smith of Derby offered their across the UK, recognising the congratulations to all the worthy contribution they make to the winners and runners-up. economy, as well as the thousands ‘Mr Nick’ (above) and members of the 5th and 6th generation of Speaking on the achievement of jobs they support. This year a Smith family, along with Smith of Derby chairman Jeremy Bowler of winning the treble, Mr Nick’s virtual awards ceremony was held daughter, director Heather live across the internet.

Whitworth, said: “This is such a special Midlands-based Smith of Derby Ltd was Mr Nicholas Smith. He was fondly known moment for the company. It is a fitting awarded Manufacturer of the Year, Regional at the works as ‘Mr Nick’, following the tribute to the whole team, who have worked Winner for the Midlands and Supreme Midlands manufacturing tradition. Nick died incredibly hard not just in 2020 but over Champion – Family Business of the Year just over two years ago, having served the decades.

2020. It was the first ‘treble’ award ever family company since childhood, and the “The team have worked tirelessly to maintain recorded and for Smith of Derby, in family awards are a fitting recognition of all of his and develop the company, and to continue ownership since its beginning in 1856, the hard work in bringing the company safely to cherish our customers and win new friends evening was filled with emotion. into the 21st century. across the world. These awards are accepted A short film, Who We Are, was made by In July one of the company clockmakers, on behalf of the whole team who deserve all one of the 6th generation of family owners.

Jon Lee, celebrated 50 years of continuous the recognition and our thanks.” q It can be viewed at www.smithofderby.com/ service with the company, from school-leaver smith-of-derby-a-family-company to the present. That makes him one of the • For further information call 01332 345569, The video celebrates the life and times company’s most experienced clockmakers. email enquires@smithofderby.com or visit of the family company and is a fitting In addition to keeping hundreds of public www.smithofderby.com tribute to its past leader for many decades, clocks to time, he helps to coach an

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Remains of Scotland’s oldest bridge found [ONE OF THE MOST important structures of medieval Scotland has been rediscovered after being hidden beneath the waters of the River Teviot in the Scottish Borders for centuries.

Over the past two years Historic Environment Scotland (HES) have funded local volunteer archaeology group the Ancrum and District Heritage Society (ADHS) to undertake an investigation which led to the discovery of the ‘lost’ medieval bridge.

Using radiocarbon dating of the bridge timbers, experts confirmed a date of the mid-1300s, making it the oldest scientifically-dated remains of a bridge ever found in its original position across one of Scotland’s rivers.

Initial archive research by ADHS led to the discovery of cutwater platforms and oak timbers that once supported the piers of a multi-arched bridge, hidden under the waters of the River Teviot. These are the last remaining, but crucially also the first built, parts of the bridge.

Built during the reigns of David II of Scotland and Edward III of England, the bridge is of historic and strategic national importance. The bridge carried the Via Regia (Kings’ Way) on its way from Edinburgh to the border. James V would have crossed there in 1526, as would Mary Queen of Scots returning from her tour of the Borders in 1566, and the Marquis of Montrose on his way to battle at Philiphaugh in 1645.

Underwater archaeologists from Wessex Archaeology undertook a

survey and assessment of the remains. Timber samples were then sent to the Scottish Universities Environment Research Centre in East Kilbride for ‘wiggle match’ radiocarbon dating. The results gave a date range in the middle of the 1300s.

ADHS also enlisted the help of Dr Coralie Mills of Dendrochronicle, who helped them take samples of the timbers in the riverbed. She was able to identify them as native oak, which is rarely found in Scottish sites after around 1450, when imported timber becomes more frequent.

Geoff Parkhouse of ADHS commented: “Ancrum Old Bridge now has a 14th-century date.

In Scotland there is not a standing bridge that is earlier than the 15th century. In those times, during flood or highwater the Ancrum Bridge may have been the only place to cross the Teviot between Hawick and Berwick, making it one of the most important structures in medieval Scotland.”

Dr Mills said: “The timber structure discovered by ADHS in the River Teviot near Ancrum is a rare survival of part of an early bridge in a hugely strategic historical location. The oak timbers are in remarkably good condition and provide really important local material for tree-ring analysis in a region where few medieval buildings survived the ravages of war. It has been a privilege to work alongside ADHS on investigating this important structure.” q

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COVER STORY

Church service streaming just got CREATIVE

[STREAMING HAS UNDOUBTEDLY

become the technology requirement for churches as we navigate our way through these uncertain times. Allowing churches to keep communicating with their congregation and the wider world is vital, and a well-designed system will allow your church to be ever-present at a time when fellowship and togetherness are perhaps more important than ever.

Creative Audio-Visual Solutions (CAVS) are at the forefront of live streaming design. They are experienced in delivering systems into all types of church building as well as Christian organisations for teaching and conferencing – ensuring that the system communicates effectively and also proves to be usable and accessible at all levels: whether it is a system that runs ‘in the background’ or where a dedicated operator is available.

There are, of course, many ways of achieving that, whether hardware or software based and also whether you are outwardly communicating only – via YouTube and Facebook live, for instance – or wishing to stream within a more interactive environment using Zoom, allowing members of the congregation to actively participate in the service. An effective camera system can also provide the added benefit, when linked to your installed projection or display system, of showing activities on the ‘big screen’ for those with limited view, such as during weddings and baptisms.

Contacting a specialist company will ensure the system suits your requirements perfectly, is always reliable and proves to be good stewardship of valuable resources.

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A good example of how advanced video and streaming technology has been utilised successfully within a teaching environment is at Oakhill Bible College in North London (above). CAVS were tasked with installing a flexible Zoom-based system that would allow all students, whether physically present or remotely ‘at home’, to fully interact with each other.

The brief was clear that the learning experience needed to be the same for everyone. That involves multiple cameras, both fixed and motorised PTZ (pan, tilt and zoom), allowing the main lecturer and class to be seen at all times. Those in the lecture theatre are able to view those at home via a separate LED display, with any questions amplified

through the room’s audio system.

A number of displays mounted at the lectern allow the lecturer to view the main Zoom call, remote call and, of course, their projected presentation – all at the same time. The system also included new laser projection and over 30 LED displays across the campus, with matrix-driven visual hardware and upgraded audio systems.

“This brief created some level of complexity with regard to system design and operation,” said Rob Alvis, project director at CAVS, “but through the use of a dedicated student control position in each room to manage camera positions, and multiple small-format screens for the lecturers, we commissioned a system that is both fully functional and discreetly installed. The college is delighted with it.”

Another recent system installation at Woking United Reformed Church (left) featured a dual-camera streaming system based around a multi-channel visual mixer desk, allowing for creative production while ensuring ease of use via a tactile, hardware-based system design.

Additional input from the main projection PC allows text, such as song words and liturgy, to be mixed into the visual images – whether via keying (overlay) or picture-in-picture. A hardwarebased system such as that also allows the system to be run in a basic preset mode – words over a single camera – for small services or where a dedicated operator isn’t present. It is an example of a truly flexible and accessible streaming system.

The system was further enhanced by the use of additional performance lighting to maximise camera quality, and to allow for different moods in a service by the use of creative LED lighting fixtures in the floor and ceiling of the church.

A number of large-format LED highdefinition displays (two front at 98” and a relay 55”) ensure the highest image quality for those attending services. The church’s services can also be viewed on YouTube by searching ‘Woking URC’.

At St James’s Church in Bushey (right) the brief was very much to have a streaming system to run ‘in the background’ – where complex operation was to be avoided and streaming could commence at the touch of a button. At the same time the system also needed to allow for further growth and potential, such as future additional cameras and text mixing.

Again, a tactile and reliable system was designed, featuring a highdefinition PTZ camera with control via a touch panel or wireless iPad for simple preset shot selection. Instant views of the lectern, altar, dais or font can be chosen at the touch of a button. For encoding, a standalone streaming server was installed alongside a new audio system, which again allows instant streaming, as well as recording to SD card via a single button push or to the church’s YouTube page.

Creative Audio-Visual Solutions are available to advise and design the ideal system for any church or organisation – including onsite visits with social distancing – from a single fixed camera to a multi-camera broadcasting set-up. Many churches are already benefitting from streaming systems designed and installed by CAVS. q

• To ensure your church is present for your congregation in these difficult times, call 01707 518400 or email sales@cavsolutions.co.uk with an enquiry.

Visit www.cavsolutions.co.uk or ‘Like’ them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/cavsolutions for the latest installation case studies and product news.

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Streaming guidance updated for lockdown2 [

WITH THE CHANGE in tack by the government regarding lockdown restrictions, churches have had to reassess their plans for opening up and the streaming of services is back as the norm.

The Church of England has reacted to the latest set of restrictions with an update to its COVID-19 Livestreaming Worship document, issued on 6 November.

The new guidance reiterates the processes involved. First, it lists the main options for streaming: recording and sharing via channels such as YouTube or conferencing via such platforms as Zoom. It lists sources of help for getting online.

The guidance then goes into more detail on such issues as safeguarding and GDPR: leaving video-free zones, for example.

The document then lists the various platforms, and the procedures for using them.

A few not-so-obvious tips make useful reading, such as remembering to say who you are and what the service is – hopefully, not everyone tuning in will be a regular churchgoer.

Finally, the issue of copyright is addressed, an issue that has proved problematical in the past.

The document is available to download, with a wealth of links, at www.churchofengland.org. q

Streaming kit connects priest and parish

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GUNNING AND KAVANAGH has announced the introduction of the Belltron BST-3000 and BST-4000 streaming systems: useful, no subscription tools for broadcasting live Mass. Belltron has developed its own ISAC (internet speech audio codec) system, offering parishioners who are unable to attend the celebration the opportunity to listen to or view all liturgies live or deferred.

The device is a useful tool for priests to stay in touch with their communities, and for parishioners to continue to feel part of the community if they can’t attend church. The BST-3000 and BST-4000 are particularly simple to manage for the parish priest. They just install the system by plugging it into a PA AUX and connect it to a Wi-Fi or 3G/4G connection; then turn on and they are live.

Parishioners just have to download the Belltron streaming app to a mobile phone, tablet or PC and select their parish. The day’s Mass or service will be available to view or listen to until the next service takes place.

The BST-3000 system offers excellent audio quality and the BST-4000 also offers video streaming, all without any subscription cost. In the absence of an ADSL/Wi-Fi connection a 3G/4G mobile connection can also be used.

Priced at £2,700 (€3,000) plus VAT for the BST-3000 and £3,600 (€4,000) plus VAT for the BST-4000 model, the units are available from the dedicated website at www.belltron.co.uk. q

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Easy-to-use streaming solution reaches the COVID congregation St Pauls Weston Super Mare is the largest church in the Diocese of Bath and Wells apart from the cathedrals. It normally has a big, vibrant congregation and has strong links with the community.

When COVID restrictions meant they could only house a fraction of their normal congregation, they approached APi Sound and Visual to create a streaming solution.

Craig the minister had recommended APi to the church as they had recently installed a comprehensive sound and visual system into his previous church in Ilminster. APi’s managing director ANDY PIDSLEY takes up the story.

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WE SUGGESTED A SYSTEM with two remote controlled pan/ tilt/zoom cameras to give them the most creativity in terms of possible camera angles. We designed a system to allow them to be integrated with the output of their presentation software, so that in addition to camera images, graphics and other content could be both shown in church and streamed.

They also have 10 flat-screen displays in the church which needed to be upgraded to HDMI connectivity, so we replaced the cable infrastructure with HDMI over Cat 6 cable (HDBT) transmission. That allowed for full HD images, and the matrix switcher we used also allows them to have different images displayed to the congregation from those for the speaker and band.

For streaming we installed a clever video switcher with a built-in streaming engine, removing the need for an additional computer. That also allows the church to record each input and the main output to a hard disk for editing after the event, if required.

However, with all of that equipment operating it could have become quite unwieldy, especially for the less technical team members. With that in mind we utilised a clever 15-button custom control panel, with each button having an integrated display clearly showing the function. With that we were able to create ‘pages’ for camera control, image switching within the church and image selection for the live stream. Popular functions such as saved camera positions, fades, stream-start-and-stop and words-over-pictures are all available as one-touch presets.

We used our own custom control processor in the background to connect all of the devices together, and even the presentation software can be operated from that panel – useful for paging through song words or sermon texts.

Unlike other control systems this solution offers the client the ability to make changes with a minimum of knowledge; we can even dial in and update the system for them.

APi Sound and Visual are always looking at the latest technology for solutions that enable the needs of the church to be met, while keeping the operation as simple as possible. q www.ecclesiasticalandheritageworld.co.uk

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Looking to the future through a high definition lens

[

CHURCHES ACROSS the country have been planning and gradually returning to physical services where their circumstances allow - encouraging the reclining-on-the-sofa, in-your-PJs, with-a-coffee, watching-church-whenyou-want-it congregation to gather in person.

This is a difficult path to navigate and every church building has its own set of risks to manage but, in the midst of much uncertainty one thing is certain, online services are here to stay. Whether it’s to ensure that services can continue through local or national lockdowns or to provide for those who may be unable to attend services because of vulnerability or because there simply isn’t space available for them at the physical service, online services have an important part to play.

Over recent months, church audio and visual specialist Cunnings has been working with many churches to provide integrated live streaming solutions.

One such church is Crofton Baptist Church, a lively and diverse fellowship of around 200 Christians based in Orpington, close to the Kent countryside.

Cunnings recently provided a new AV system for one of the halls at the church so they naturally returned to them for the next phase of work – to provide live streaming of services from the church building.

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A good quality camera is key to any live streaming solution so a high definition controllable camera has been installed providing flexible pan, tilt and zoom adjustment and giving a good view of the whole church. Streaming is as simple as pressing one button to stream live to YouTube so the online congregation experience the same as the physical congregation.

A streaming mixer is used to select between the camera and any of the computer inputs being used for song words, sermon notes or pre-recorded videos. A compact preview monitor allows the operators to see the camera view, where the next shot can be lined up using one of the many stored camera positions and recalled at the touch of a button, so there are no shaky camera shots.

But the new technology goes far beyond just providing a stream to the congregation at home. The church were keen to ensure that everyone across the church complex could benefit from being part of the service, especially with social distancing measures and a limit on the numbers allowed in the main worship area. Cunnings provided a solution to distribute the audio and visual feed from the worship area across the existing network connections in the church to the crèche, foyer, lounge and adjoining halls so that no one is missing out.

So, no matter what the future may hold, Crofton Baptist are ready to welcome their congregation in person, throughout the building and online through the use of integrated AV technology which is simple to use.

To find out more about live streaming solutions and audio visual systems for churches get in contact with the team at Cunnings. q

Name change reflects developments [ IN A REFLECTION of the on-going development of AV

members, particularly in the UK, as it continues to be the most technology, the former Institute of Sound and Communications recognised standard of training – by government, public and private Engineers (ISCE) has renamed and sector bodies – for our markets.” rebranded itself to ISCVE – the Institute ISCVE training courses include of Sound, Communications and Visual programmes presented by the industry’s Engineers. leading consultants, engineers and The name change recognises the practitioners and are open to members diversity of the institute’s members and and non-members. A full schedule of the markets they operate in, along with courses can be found on the recently the convergence of technologies. rebranded and relaunched ISCVE website ISCVE president Helen Goddard at iscve.org.uk. q FInstSCVE (pictured) stated: “We recognise that audio without visual, in today’s markets, is a little like tea without biscuits: you rarely see one without the other.

BACK IN MARCH ISCEx 2020 just pipped lockdown to become one of the last exhibitions “So, while it is important for us to to take place in real space this year. It is also hoped that next year’s show, scheduled for 17-18 continue to embrace members and market March at Coombe Abbey in Warwickshire under the rebranded ISCVEx 2021 name, will mark sectors of our origins, we also welcome the industry’s emergence from the COVID scourge. with open arms members who are working ISCVEx is the annual event for all sound, communications and visual professionals. Anyone within additional disciplines, skill sets and working in commercial system design, integration, project management or sales will find technologies; and our brand identity has that it provides excellent opportunities to learn, engage and discuss commercial sound, been changed to reflect that. communications and visual solutions in an intimate, non-imposing environment.

“Training programmes offered by ISCVE ISCVEx 2021 will commence with a Networking Dinner at Coombe Abbey on the eve of the already include acoustics, assistive hearing, exhibition, following a number of member-only events. Commencing at 7pm with pre-dinner PA and sound reinforcement systems, voice drinks, guests can enjoy a fun dining experience and mingle with the good company of industry alarm and audio-visual technologies, so friends and colleagues. this is a very natural progression; and, The following day will see the annual exhibition opening, followed by three keynote addresses: of course, ISCVE training programmes the Hopkins-Baldwin Lecture, the Warren-Barnett Memorial Lecture and the ISCVEx Lecture. continue to be fully CPD accredited.

For more information visit iscve.org.uk/iscvex/iscvex-2021/. q “CPD accreditation is important for our

Fingers are crossed for 2021 show [

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Legacy allows church to modernise its sound and video

Active audio loudspeakers

[BLESSED WITH a substantial legacy, the PCC of Christ Church,

Higher Bebington on The Wirral, embarked upon a major programme to upgrade the church lighting and sound system. The church (pictured), which features in Pevsner’s Guide, is Grade II listed.

Kirkpatrick Sound Engineering were contracted to design completely new sound and AV systems.

They included display screens, which are fast becoming a ‘must have’ feature in modern church worship.

The firm’s principal, Roy Kirkpatrick MInstSCVE, worked closely with various members of the PCC to ensure that the installation of the finalised specification went ahead Roy Kirkpatrick MInstSCVE smoothly – liaising with lighting contractor Cox and Tyrer, who dealt with the cabling containment aspect of the project.

All the equipment for the project was personally selected by Roy to best serve the needs of the church and sourced through Sound Directions and Commercial Audio Solutions, with whom Roy has worked closely for many years.

The project included a fully-zoned system where any input can be routed to any output via a digital matrix switcher, with all connections being through fully-screened CAT 6 cable.

Input points were supplied at the front and rear of the church, with all control equipment housed in a cabinet discreetly set at the rear of the church behind the congregation. An assisted hearing induction loop was installed to serve the main seating area.

Roy chose two Active Audio R110 one-metre line array column loudspeakers supported by two 10" sub-base units to deliver clear natural sound over the main space of the church. It is a combination that Sound and AV control cabinet has brought him considerable

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success over many installations. All the microphones, apart from the pulpit, are radio microphones from the MIPRO 7 series, sourced to deliver clear and natural speech.

Clear and vivid visual content is supplied to two 2.7m electricallyoperated drop-down screens set above the church’s rood screen by two 7,000 lumen EIKI projectors, giving excellent WUXGA resolution – the industry’s standard measurement of performance. q

Hospital’s Victorian stained glass is replaced

[

THE Royal Hospital for Neuro-disability (RHN) in Putney is celebrating the restoration of the beautiful stained glass windows in its Victorian Assembly Room. The original windows, designed in the 1870s, were destroyed in bombing raids in World War Two. After the war limited funds meant that the broken windows were replaced with plain glass. In recent years the windows and frames had become too fragile and were boarded up.

The Assembly Room has been at the heart of the hospital and its community for over 150 years. The foundation stone, still in place today, was laid in 1879 by the then-Prince of Wales, later King Edward VII. It is an archetypal grand Victorian hall, located at the centre of the ‘Great Extension’ to the RHN. Until the COVID-19 pandemic the Assembly Room was being used daily as a space for playing boccia, socialising and entertainment, as well as twice weekly church services. It is an ideal space for people in wheelchairs because of its size and smooth floor, and was widely used by patients and family members as a place to relax and spend time together.

Using a single black-and-white archive image of the original windows, stained glass specialists Chapel Studio worked with the Heritage of London Trust – who gave a start-up grant – to design new windows in keeping with the originals. The cost of the work was £230k, which was raised in record time entirely through donations from generous individuals and organisations.

The surviving archive image suggested that the original Victorian windows showed stylised versions of the four seasons. Chapel Studio researched the appropriate colours for the glass, as well as referencing some of the surviving windows in the hospital. The glass artists drew up scaled designs and colours in digital format, before the studio team recreated them using traditional stained glass manufacturing techniques. The Heritage of London Trust provided advice throughout the project.

Laura Hobson, conservator at Chapel Studio, said: “It’s very exciting to have a project like this to work on. The vast majority of our projects are for churches, cathedrals and university colleges, as well as stately homes. But observing stained glass can be very spiritual and therapeutic, and to be a part of a project to transform a space for quiet contemplation and to offer people solace is very rewarding.”

During the project hospital patients enjoyed art sessions using different stained glass designs as inspiration, which were then displayed in an exhibition at the hospital site.

The Rev Geoff Coyne of the RHN said: “The restoration of the stained glass in this room that is at the heart of our RHN community not only keeps the ethos of the hospital’s founder alive – ‘providing the best possible environment’ – but it enhances a space that is both social and spiritual, giving a sense of peace and beauty.”

Dr Nicola Stacey, director of the Heritage of London Trust, added: “We are thrilled with the results of this project – it was an opportunity to restore a fantastic and colourful element of the Victorian hospital and make it work in a modern setting, for patients and their families long into the future. It’s also helped highlight the history of the hospital and all the care and detail that went into its original design.”

The RHN expressed its thanks to the Heritage of London Trust for their support, as well as Orion Capital Managers, The Glaziers Trust, Kenrob Charitable Trust, the Scottish Summer Ball 2018 and The Swire Charitable Trust. q • For further information call Hertfordshire 01923 266386, Norwich 01603 891505, email office@chapelstudio.co.uk or visit www.chapelstudio.co.uk

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CRE gets the message across – At Home [ WHEN Christian Resources Exhibitions

(CRE) announced in June that this year’s CRE National at Sandown would not be taking place because of COVID-19 restrictions, they had already decided that it would not be the end of the matter. If people could not come to CRE, CRE would go to the people: CRE At Home 2020 was already being planned.

The full programme of seminars and events that had been planned for Sandown would Dana and Sir Cliff Richard are among the contributors migrate online, to begin on 13 October – The directory also offers a comprehensive listing of the seminars the day the event was to open. The result is a full series of webinars available to view. They are accompanied by helpful QR codes. available to view for months after the original planned event.

Among the subjects on offer are Streaming: what you need and As with traditional CRE exhibitions, each day of the planned event what you need to know with Andy Pidsley of APi Sound and Visual, opened with Daily Worship, led by a notable personality in the world Church lighting: the process from old to new with Ryan Slessenger of of ministry.

CES and Fundraising for capital projects for churches with David Saint Another familiar feature from CREs past is Cindy’s Sofa with the of Action Planning. event’s ‘queen of conversation’, Rev Cindy Kent MBE. The page – carried Other subject matter reflecting concerns of a modern age include Top on the exhibition’s YouTube channel – features interviews with some of five tips for connecting online with Philippa Hanna of Weareworship/ CRE’s best-known friends and contributors, who explain how they have Integrity Music, Using Office 365 to help with data protection and GDPR coped with the pandemic. They include celebrity entertainers Sir Cliff with Andrew Horler of AMDH Services and Climate change: how can Richard, Paul Jones and Don Maclean, as well as familiar faces such church buildings meet the challenge? with Mark Eddison of MEB Design as Paul Kerensa and Jonathan Veira: plus, of course, Dana – who has and Joel Callow of QODA Consulting. opened three CREs over the years.

The full list is also available, with links, at creonline.co.uk/ She told Cindy: “For decades, every time I walk on stage I recite the creathome-seminars/. q Magnificat: ‘My soul doth magnify the Lord, my spirit rejoices in God my Saviour, for He that is mighty has done great things and Holy is His name‘.”

The whole ensemble is accompanied by a 64-page A-Z Directory, featuring all the organisations booked into the next two actual CRE exhibitions – at Westpoint in Exeter on 17-18 March next year and CRE National 2021 at Sandown on 12-14 October.

The directory was mailed out to over 15,000 church leaders and officers. It is also available to view at https://issuu.com/ christianresourcesexhibition/docs/cre_at_home_2020_handbook.

In his foreword to the guide, CRE owner Steve Goddard refers EVEN WHILE THEY were putting the CRE At Home event to St Paul’s habit of opening his letters with expressions of fond together, the whole team at CRE were looking forward to the remembrance and a looking forward to meeting his readers in person two forthcoming physical exhibitions next year: CRE South in the near future.

West at Westpoint, Exeter on 17-18 March and CRE National He quotes Paul’s letter to ‘his close friends in Philippi’: “I thank God in at Sandown on 12-14 October. There was, and is, still the every remembrance of you,” and in Romans 1:11: “I long to see you…” nagging possibility that one of those shows could fall victim to Steve writes: “As we have been reminded through COVID-19, not the COVID pandemic. being physically with someone doesn't imply lack of care or concern.

A posting on the CREOnline website explained the dilemma: We have to adapt. In these strange days many of us, for example, have “Postponing CRE National until 2021 has proved exacting for mastered the blessings of new technology to stay in touch with family the small, hard-working team that puts the exhibition together. and friends.”

CRE South West is still firmly on our agenda, but we are aware He ends by looking forward, as St Paul had, to meeting people in that government regulations in light of COVID-19 could still the flesh once more: “St Paul eventually reached Rome and we look prevent us from going ahead. We will need to make a final, forward to your company in Exeter and Esher next year, for ‘we long to prayerful decision about this at some point in November – see you…’” before investing in a range of promotional activity.”

The following page carries a moving tribute to CRE’s founder, The team consequently called for a Week of Prayer for Gospatrick Home, who sadly passed away in April.

Christian Events during the week of CRE At Home, from 12-16 The directory lists the whole panoply of goods and services that October. Typically, their plea encompassed the whole sphere of keep the modern church and its ministry going. They range from Christian activity scheduled for the future. lighting systems and audio-visual equipment to seating and lecterns.

The following weeks and months will reveal whether those There are consultants offering advice on insurance, accounting and prayers have been answered. q even counselling. Plus, of course, there are the many varied services concerning the fabric of the church.

Prayers sought for upcoming events [

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New furniture adds a new element to worship [

IN AUGUST last year Fullers Finer Furniture were contacted by a representative from Hastings Temple Salvation Army in connection with the provision of furniture.

The Hastings Temple Salvation Army building originally opened as a cinema. It was later used to store furniture and was established as a church in 1935. The brief was for a Canterbury Lectern, Mercy Seats and a Holiness Table.

Photographs of the church were sent and wood samples and drawings dispatched to ensure the furniture matched both the existing décor and the requirements of the client.

The Canterbury Lectern was purchased first. It was made in natural oak and bore a Gothic arched panel in medium oak with a cross in relief. The height adjustment of the lectern, as with all Fullers’ Canterbury and York Lecterns, operates by virtue of a simple, reliable, gas lift system and activating lever.

The only maintenance required is to use the system! Each lectern is supplied on four castors for easy manoeuvrability.

The lectern, finished to be compatible with the church audio system, was purchased with the recommended flexible gooseneck microphone.

Personalised further by a plaque, the lectern was dedicated to the memory of one very special member of the congregation. It was delivered last November.

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In the following weeks the church received permission to proceed with further items and the specifications for the Mercy Seats and Holiness Table were finalised and work commenced. The order was for two Mercy Seats in natural oak, supplied with padded kneelers to match the existing soft furnishing in the church, and one Holiness Table –­ also finished in a natural oak. Both items had castors fitted to aid flexibility in use.

In order to complete the refurbishment, the church then placed an order for the pine panelling at the front of the church to be replaced with natural oak veneered board, edged with solid oak lippings, all finished in a natural satin lacquer to match the previous furniture supplied. The Salvation Army crest was retained as a focal point.

Fullers’ priority is always to provide excellent craftsmanship and customer service, whether it be a one-off order or multiple orders over a period of time.

The emphasis is on meeting the client’s specification in a way that combines beauty, practicality and convenience.

At Hastings Salvation Army the furniture was well received: the invitation to go back and carry out further work is a positive testament to the craftsmanship and attention to detail synonymous with Fullers Finer Furniture.

Fullers are always happy to talk through specific requirements and can be contacted by telephone, email or traditional letter. q

Seven Principles: a safety-first approach to making COVID changes accessible IAN STREETS, managing director of accessibility consultants About Access, explains the steps venues must take to include people with disabilities as they reopen.

[RECOGNISED BY Chancellor Rishi Sunak as part of ‘the lifeblood

of British culture’, heritage sites have shared in the funding which he has made available to help cope with the fall-out from coronavirus.

But with cash comes enhanced responsibility; and the Seven Inclusive Principles for Arts and Cultural Organisations are as relevant to heritage properties as they are to theatres and music venues. That’s in part because many heritage sites host such activities; but it’s also because, when it comes to accessibility, everybody can learn from best practice.

The Seven Inclusive Principles have been produced by the UK and devolved governments to support the re-opening of the cultural industries, with a focus on safety issues – including accessibility. Among the bodies which support the principles are the Arts Council, the National Lottery and the Museums Association.

If you work with them you probably need to be aware of their expectations; and top of the list is that all organisational activities must comply with the requirements of The Equality Act 2010, or in Northern Ireland the Disability Discrimination Act 1995.

Sharpening that focus, it adds that all actions relating to disabled people should be undertaken in accordance with the Social Model of Disability with the aim of combating and eliminating ableism.

Disabled people should be consulted when organisations develop bespoke operating or re-opening plans, and Equality Impact Assessments should be completed before decisions are made.

Clear, accurate and comprehensive information about COVID-19

measures should be provided to enable disabled artists, practitioners, employees, visitors, audiences and participants to assess their own levels of risk.

The customer journey for disabled audiences and visitors should be thoroughly mapped, ensuring it is equality impact-assessed and clearly communicated in multiple forms.

Among the measures suggested are introducing new, accessible arrangements for booking tickets, giving priority to disabled customers with queue management and ensuring one-way systems are clearly laid out, with suitable gaps for wheelchair users.

The principles also recognise that disabled people are more likely to require physical and/or emotional support, and therefore provision of a free companion ticket may make the difference between whether or not they can attend and event.

In short, in dealing with COVID, make sure that what you are putting in is accessible: don’t place a hand-sanitiser dispenser where it might present an obstacle, such as in the middle of an aisle; and don’t have one that is operated by foot – it’s no help to someone who uses a wheelchair.

Make sure also to allow disabled people more time to make their way around a property where social distancing is in place; and pay particular attention to evacuation procedures.

The document, Seven Inclusive Principles for Arts and Cultural Organisations, can be downloaded from the resources section of www.attitudeiseverything.org.uk. q

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Long experience leads to a unique appreciation of today’s lighting needs

[LOCATED IN THE heart of the UK in Sutton Coldfield, West

Midlands, Lighting Dynamics UK have recently expanded their development as one of the UK’s premier companies specialising in the interior and exterior lighting of cathedrals, churches and other places of worship across all religious denominations.

Since its conception, Lighting Dynamics UK has established a reputation for creating practical and architecturally sympathetic lighting schemes.

Wherever possible, discreet lighting equipment is specified and installed to produce suitable levels of illumination and to highlight both ecclesiastical details and any special architectural features.

The company is dedicated to offering a totally independent, creative, imaginative and unbiased lighting design, as well as an in depth consultancy service and, where required, the supply of all associated or specified lighting equipment.

Lighting Dynamics UK has a significant number of very prestigious church lighting projects currently in progress, with a number at advanced stages of planning and design. The entire team believe that this is a very exciting time in the development of church lighting, especially with such a great and diverse range of modern light sources now available.

Company principal Gerry Browne explained: “Our comprehensive ranges of modern, energy saving, long-life lighting equipment is manufactured from the highest quality materials and takes into consideration many important factors such as reliability, durability, optical performance, overall efficiency, size, style and ease of maintenance, to mention but a few.”

In recent times the company has also launched and continues to develop a brand new family of the very latest bespoke high quality ‘commercial grade’ LED luminaires, specifically designed for all types of ecclesiastical lighting tasks.

Gerry continued: “This extensive range of LED products, along with a host of related LED luminaire lighting accessories, has been under development for some time and continually now takes our overall lighting portfolio to the next level of technical innovation.

“Colour change lighting linked to DMX controls is also proving poplar for selected church illumination applications. Plus, we have an unrivalled knowledge and expertise of all modern intelligent dimming and smart lighting control systems.”

While popular systems such as DSI, 0-10V and DALI all have their respective advantages and disadvantages, the company is also proficient in utilising alternative wired and wireless lighting control systems.

The more recent Casambi controls system – a

Bluetooth low-energy wireless solution – can have a number of benefits for the end user client; however, the Casambi solution can prove to be somewhat restricted in older type church buildings, especially those with thick walls. In those scenarios further design solutions have been developed and implemented by Lighting Dynamics UK to overcome the operational limitations of the system.

It has been established that most customers are increasingly looking for someone with the flair and experience to provide a quality lighting design, while also specifying top-grade, high-quality ‘commercial grade’ lighting equipment and controls that will provide longevity, reliability and overall flexibility for their specific ecclesiastical lighting upgrade project.

In the main, end user clients no longer wish to see their completed church lighting project looking like an extension of somebody else’s lighting showroom or lit with floodlights to resemble an industrial style installation.

However, achieving the optimum lighting design solution is a long-term process which involves educating, informing and demonstrating to all members of a specific project team what can be achieved.

Lighting Dynamics UK are fully aware of the need to be energy conscious.

In this modern age it would appear that the never-ending increase in new energy regulations is only surpassed by the cost of energy itself.

With the advent of easy internet access and the more recent LED lighting technologies, many end-user clients have tremendous difficulty in differentiating between the various prices available online – and in particular understanding the differences between high-quality ‘commercial grade’ LED luminaires and their counterpart, lowcost alternatives, which in many situations would not even be deemed suitable for a domestic lighting application.

The issue is further compounded when modern LED light sources need to be dimmed and linked to any form of separate lighting control system.

Lighting Dynamics UK has, if required, a fullyqualified team of NIC EIC registered electricians able to carry out the installation of interior and exterior lighting systems to current electrical standards and regulations.

The team is extremely experienced at working within all types of ecclesiastical buildings, including and especially those with listed status.

In short, Lighting Dynamics UK can provide the complete lighting service. It provides a bespoke design service for each individual church lighting project – interior or exterior – from initial meeting and informal discussions right through to final focusing and commissioning of the completed project. q www.ecclesiasticalandheritageworld.co.uk

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Careful consideration of options lights the way for Wirral church St Bridget’s Parish Church in West Kirby has been a place of worship for over 1,000 years, reaching back to the time when Norse settlers occupied the Wirral peninsula – the Viking hogback stone in the south aisle is evidence of that.

The Grade Two-listed church was substantially rebuilt and restored in 1869/70

by Chester architects Kelly and Edwards. At that time fine fittings were added, such as stained glass windows by Kempe.

In 2015 the then-rector, Rev John Bleazard, asked the congregation: “Are you

sitting comfortably?” He then launched a consultation on what improvements the congregation, event organisers and other interested parties, such as the West Kirby Museum, would like to see in the church.

As expected, better heating, an updated sound system and more comfortable seating conditions – all now successfully completed – were top of the list, together with a new improved lighting system.

MARTIN HARRISON was the project co-ordinator for the PCC of St Bridget’s. Here, he tells how the lighting project unfolded.

[

THE WIRING and lighting fitments had been slowly deteriorating over a number of years and repair work on the system was becoming urgent.

The Church Enhancement Group soon realised that patch repairs were not a cost-effective or sustainable option and that only a full rewiring project provided a solution to our needs.

The Enhancement Group initially visited relatively local churches which had completed lighting improvements and made enquiries to a small number of potential partners in the lighting project. They ranged from lighting manufacturers to fee based consultants as well as church lighting specialists who might be capable of handling the project from initial discussions through to Faculty application and beyond. We were guided in this by the church architect, Alf Plant from Ainsley Gomman Architects of Birkenhead.

During these discussions the group identified that completely rewiring using the latest LED lighting and technology would meet our needs best – both as an Eco Church and giving an easily controllable system allowing varying effects and levels of light to serve the many uses of our fine church building. We also wanted a system to transform our special building and allow the many fine architectural features to be enhanced, while also remembering that it needed to be sympathetic to the routine of church services.

What we didn’t realise was that there were very many options and not all of them would have produced the results we desired.

Following discussions between ourselves and other churches who had previously been through the process, we agreed that the best course of action was initially to establish a good relationship with two ‘design and install’ companies and then visit a small number of their completed projects. The two companies initially visited us with no cost and no obligation, to proceed with them to look at our building and

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listen to our needs while explaining what could and should be considered. They also gave us an early indication of what the solution might cost, which was particularly helpful as up to that stage we were only guessing at what that amount may have been.

One of the companies, Anthony J Smith (Glos) Ltd, directed us to two projects recently completed, relatively locally in the North West – namely Eccleston and Standish – and the visits to view those projects left us completely satisfied, not only with what we saw but also with the feedback from the church representatives we met.

Che Polley from Anthony J Smith (Glos) Ltd made a small number of visits for discussions and demonstrations over a relatively short period of time, until he had arrived at a fullycosted set of proposals. They were presented to the PCC and wider congregation before it was agreed that the Faculty should be applied for. Our Enhancement Group was convinced that choosing a company that had been through the Faculty process on numerous occasions was the way forward. This was confirmed when the DAC of the Diocese of Chester approved the proposals drawn up by Anthony J Smith (Glos) Ltd. The Faculty was duly received and it was decided that, under the guidance of Alf Plant, the works were to be carried out. The directlyemployed installation team from Anthony J Smith (Glos) Ltd could not have been more helpful in not only allowing normal use of the church to continue with minimum disruption, but also by installing the new wiring system with the care and sensitivity our special building deserved.

The completed works have been warmly welcomed by all and the solution provides an excellent quality and suitable levels of light, while providing attractive enhancement for the many fine features – including the unique hogback stone, the Oberammergau frieze and the previously-unlit features such as the war

memorial and the east window reveal.

The easy-to-operate-and-alter scene-setting system allows us to make any adjustments ourselves, following only minimal training which was provided by Che. We are, of course, extremely happy that there are no additional on-going costs to the scene-setting and programming, and are comfortable that

Che will be available should any further advice be required.

The entire process, from first contact to completion of the project with Anthony J Smith (Glos) Ltd, leaves St Bridget’s in the very satisfied category and we would be happy to show our completed project or talk about the process with any individual churches who are considering new lighting. The Enhancement Group were also very happy that the final cost was within the guide price provided by Che at the initial stages of the deliberations.

Che himself summed up Anthony J Smith (Glos) Ltd’s view of the project thus: “This project was a pleasure for us to be involved with. The way the team at St Bridget’s organised, investigated and progressed the project should be commended, and we are very happy with the fact that not only does it appear to tick all the client’s desired boxes, but also with the way the final solution has been warmly received by the client.”

The final piece of the jigsaw in the improvement scheme – an extension with fully accessible toilet facilities for the use of the congregation and visitors from the community – is in the sights of the Enhancement Group and will follow on when the timing is right and the funding is in place. q • For further information call 01453 825130 or visit www.anthonyjsmith.co.uk www.ecclesiasticalandheritageworld.co.uk

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Trust administers fund to ensure their names live on [

DURING THE centenary of World War One a great deal of the nation’s attention was focused on remembering the millions of lives lost over four years of savage and, most would agree, pointless warfare.

While national commemorations centred on the Cenotaph in London, local services of remembrance were taking place at the estimated 100,000 or more memorials up and down the country.

During those centenary years, from 2014-18, the government’s First World War Memorials Programme (FWWMP) covered a wide range of War Memorial activity, with a grant element totalling £2m delivered by War Memorials Trust.

The programme facilitated repair and conservation works through its grants and acted as a catalyst for action. It followed the repair and conservation principles supported by the national heritage bodies in each part of the UK and promoted The War Memorial at Atherstone in Warwickshire was repaired by Independent current best conservation practice, to ensure no works Memorial Inspection in 2012, with the help of a grant from War Memorials Trust damaged memorials. the In Memoriam 2014 project to protect memorials at risk of Historic England defines a War Memorial as ‘any physical object theft or damage by marking them with SmartWater forensic liquid. created, erected or installed to commemorate those involved in or To apply for the product, visit the In Memoriam 2014 website at affected by a conflict or war’, so it can be anything from a sculpture to a www.smartwaterfoundation.org/in-memoriam/. q stained-glass window.

Founded in 1997, War Memorials Trust is the charity that works to • To join War Memorials Trust or make a donation visit the website at protect and conserve War Memorials in the UK. The charity provides free www.warmemorials.org/get-involved/ advice to anyone, as well as running grant schemes to support repair and conservation projects.

The grant scheme is now funded by Historic England through the National Capacity Building Grants programme. Grants are available for between £300 and £30,000 and for up to 75% of eligible costs. The grants support repair and conservation works undertaken following best conservation practice. The trust also raises funding for its grant scheme through charitable donations.

Almost all War Memorials are eligible for support and custodians/ owners can find information about eligibility and processes on the trust’s website at www.warmemorials.org.

Anyone interested in applying for a grant should read the Apply for a grant section carefully, to help understand if their project is eligible and what information needs to be provided to start a grant application.

The trust does point out that just because a project is eligible for funding does not mean it will be able to make a grant. Priority is given to those memorials in greatest need and the charity will be able to deal with enquiries more quickly if a War Memorial has up-todate information on its condition and photographs provided on War Memorials Online at www.warmemorialsonline.org.uk.

Decisions will depend on the amount of funding available and the grant scheme for which a project is eligible.

Regardless of whether or not War Memorials Trust is assisting financially in a conservation project, it can offer advice on any issue relating to War Memorial conservation, preservation and maintenance.

The trust is also partnering with the SmartWater Foundation in

Professionals in Cleaning Stone Monuments All works undertaken to the standards and methods required by English Heritage and The War Memorial Trust. No use of chemicals, none damaging cleaning methods and current conservation methods used.

T: 07870 984556 E: i.m.i@ntlworld.com W: www.imi-cenotaph.co.uk 81 Main Road, Watnall, Nottingham, Nottinghamshire NG16 1HE

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Memorial gun restored as tribute to VC’s valour [

IN THE CENTRE of Chepstow in Monmouthshire, sited next to the town’s War Memorial, is a second memorial that commemorates the bravery of local seaman William Charles Williams at the Battle of Gallipoli during World War One. The memorial is a captured gun from the German U-boat UB91 and was donated to the town by King George V in Williams’s memory.

William Charles Williams VC The memorial in Chepstow before (left) and after restoration was born in September 1880 in After fencing off the U-boat gun to protect members of the public, the Shropshire and raised in Chepstow. He became an Able Seaman in conservation work was carried out during August this year. The bronze 1901 and was commended for bravery during the Second Boer War dedication plaque was carefully removed and set aside for treatment. whilst serving on board HMS Terrible off the coast of South Africa, and Loose paint layers and corrosion were removed manually using abrasive later during the Boxer Uprising in China. papers, fine 3M Scotchbrite pads and scrapers, back to a sound surface.

In 1910 Williams left the regular service and joined the Royal Naval In general, much of the earliest paint layers survived and were Reserve, working for the police force and at the Newport Steel Works. He continuing to provide protection of the metal surfaces. The bronze re-joined the Royal Navy in 1914 and served on a number of vessels. and brass parts were stripped of all their later overpaint to reinstate On 25 April 1915 he was involved in the ‘V Beach’ landing at their original appearance. Removal of the many layers of failing later Gallipoli in Turkey. Williams was assisting the commander of HMS paint also revealed much of the finer details of the gun, including the Clyde, with three colleagues, in securing lighters to form a bridge to manufacturer’s stamp marks and date. the shore, by holding onto a rope while chest deep in water. He was The heavily-corroded steel covers on the recoil mechanism were seriously wounded by enemy fire and then killed by a shell while the removed, revealing a history of patching-up and repairs to the covers. ship’s commander was attempting to rescue him. His act of bravery Beneath were thick layers of rust on the recoil springs. led to his posthumous award of the Victoria Cross. A bronze plaque Areas of remaining rust were treated and stabilised using Loctite 7500 mounted on the gun recorded his act of bravery. rust converter applied by a brush. There were The memorial is a deck gun from the a couple of patches of surface damage to the German U-boat, which was a standard 10.5cm paint of the gun barrel. Those were filled using L45 calibre weapon. UB91 was commissioned a two-part polyester filler, Rustin’s Polyester into the German Imperial Navy on 11 April filler paste. Bare metal and rust-converted 1918 under the command of Wolfgang Hans areas were primed using two coats of SherwinWertig. She only had a short period of active Williams 489 Kem-Kromik zinc phosphate service, sinking four ships including two in primer. That included all the areas normally Welsh waters: the US Coastguard cutter Tampa hidden by the recoil mechanism covers. and a Japanese cargo ship, Hirano Maru.

The whole of the gun was then painted with The U-boat surrendered to the British navy on one coat of Sherwin-Williams 671 undercoat, 21 November 1918 before touring a number excluding the brass and bronze elements. As of South Wales ports. She was broken up at The memorial’s plaque the steel covers on the recoil mechanism were Briton Ferry in 1921. Chepstow’s cenotaph badly corroded, new covers were fabricated in and the memorial gun were unveiled by a Mrs mild steel using the originals as part templates. They were protected with Frances Smith, the sister of W C Williams VC, in January 1922. a coat of primer and undercoat.

In December 2018 Chepstow Town Council employed the services A coat of Dinitrol High Performance Wax was applied to the hidden of Historic Metalwork Conservation Company Ltd (HMCC Ltd) to parts of the recoil mechanism before the new cover plates were fitted prepare a condition report and make recommendations for appropriate using new slotted machine screws. A bead of Sikaflex EBT sealant was conservation treatment. Consultant Peter Meehan ACR inspected the gun applied at the interfaces to help prevent water ingress in the future. and found it to be in a deteriorating condition. It had been subject to The gun was then finish painted in the original German grey, identified numerous periods of cleaning and repainting, but little had been done during earlier paint analysis and from historical information. Sherwinto treat or stabilise any underlying corrosion that was going on to the Williams Kem-Kromik 530 gloss was brush applied with a black gloss cast iron and steel components beneath the paint layers. being used for the tompion and parts of the controls.

The most recent paint layers were found to be peeling and flaking The bronze and brass elements were protected by brush application from the surfaces of the gun. The gun barrel had localised areas of of a suitable metal lacquer, Sculpt Nouveau Smart Coat. A coating of damage to the paint where people had been sitting or climbing on it.

Dinitrol High Performance wax was also applied to the inside of the In the more recent past the bronze fittings and controls had all been gun’s base to address the problem of water ponding during wet weather overpainted in gloss black. and minimise further corrosion.

The cast iron base that supported the gun barrel and stock had an The bronze plaque was lightly cleaned using a very fine 3M area beneath which water was regularly ponding, leading to the growth Scotchbrite pad before the engraved lettering was carefully picked out of vegetation and a build-up of rust layers. Steel covers on the recoil using white Humbrol enamel paint. It was then returned to its original mechanism on top of the stock had corroded severely, with areas of place on the side of the memorial gun. metal loss.

The programme of conservation treatment has given the memorial a Following the award of a grant from CADW in early 2020, Chepstow new lease of life and should provide on-going protection for the next Town Council contacted HMCC Ltd again to undertake the works 5-7 years before any significant new maintenance is required. It is also recommended in its report. The COVID-19 pandemic delayed the start once again a fitting memorial to a local hero. q by six months. www.ecclesiasticalandheritageworld.co.uk

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Desert memorial merits

[

IT IS UNUSUAL for the shortlist of the Roofing Awards to contain an overseas project, but the inclusion of the El Alamein War Cemetery in the Reinforced Bitumen Membranes category of the 2020 Awards was an honourable exception. The reroofing project was carried out by The Complete Roofing Company (TCRC) and will be carried over to the combined 2020/21 awards with the other shortlisted entries.

The El Alamein War Cemetery is the largest Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC) cemetery in Egypt. Unveiled in 1954 by Field Marshal Bernard Montgomery, the cemetery contains more than 7,200 Commonwealth burials from World War Two, of which more than 800 are unidentified.

It contains the graves of servicemen who died during all stages of the campaigns in the Western Desert and whose remains were brought into the cemetery from a wide area, but especially those who

died in the Battle of El Alamein at the end of October 1942 and in the period immediately before. There are also some 100 war graves of other nationalities.

At the entrance to the cemetery is the CWGC Alamein Memorial.

It bears the names of almost 12,000 British and Commonwealth servicemen who have no known grave. The memorial takes the form of a cloister, some 80m long. It is entered through three arches, which lead to a wide hall where the names are inscribed in stone. Broad stairs lead to a rooftop terrace, with stunning views across the desert and in the distance the Mediterranean Sea. Due to the historical and sentimental value of the site, with thousands of lost servicemen’s names inscribed in the stone on the underside of the memorial, it is imperative that the roof performs and protects the building from water ingress. The performance and aesthetics of the roof are particularly important because it also acts as a large, paved viewing platform, from which visitors can gain a unique perspective of the enormity and scale of battle and the ground where the many lost servicemen lie.

For the highly prestigious and historically important project, TCRC were selected to install a range of roofing and waterproofing products from leading manufacturers, including Garland, SIG Roofing and Aggregate Industries.

Designing a sympathetic waterproofing solution In the initial stages of the project TCRC attended on site with the client in order to undertake an investigative survey and feasibility study. That enabled them to be able to establish the nature of the existing make-up and create the most appropriate specification proposal.

TCRC then worked closely with both the client and all manufacturers to create a

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its place on shortlist

sympathetic design and specification that would be suitable for this listed architectural building in such a unique location. It consisted of an inverted roof build-up, incorporating specially selected products which are rated to withstand desert temperatures.

A particularly important requirement of the project was that the finish of the new waterproofing system should match the colour and appearance of the existing structure. TCRC therefore liaised closely with SIG Roofing in Bristol and Aggregate Industries in order to source a smooth ground roofing slab that would blend in perfectly as required.

A unique project with unique challenges During the installation phase of the project there were a number of unusual challenges for the TCRC team to overcome. For example, 100% propane gas is not available in Egypt; instead, only a mix of propane and butane is available, which requires higher power regulators. As a result, there was the challenge of sourcing them in the local markets of Alamein!

Similarly, it was not easy to locate fuel and other specific tools that were required for the job, such as a specialist tile saw.

The harsh weather conditions were extremely difficult to work in, with the summer temperatures reaching as high as 50ºC. In terms of the installation itself, quality was of paramount importance at every step of the process. Initially, the existing tiles had to be carefully removed and then disposed of responsibly. The substrate was then primed before two layers of Garland APAO membrane were expertly installed.

Imported paving slab pedestals were then placed on the roof, followed by 300mm x 300mm Aggregate Industries Buff Smooth ground slabs.

The existing cast-iron drainage channels were also lifted and weathered, before being safely reinstated.

The project was summed up thus by Tim Coleman, director of TCRC: “This was a fantastic team effort by everyone involved, which ultimately led to the client being delighted at the high-quality waterproofing solution that they received. TCRC’s work will enable this historically significant site to continue telling such an important story for many years to come.” q

www.ecclesiasticalandheritageworld.co.uk

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Steam clean brings clarity to Herts memorial

[ AS PART OF a memorial cleaning service, P&S Property

Management Ltd restore and maintain monuments throughout the London area and the home counties.

In December 2017 they were asked to carry out a project to restore a memorial sited in the grounds of St Paul’s Church Langleybury, near King’s Langley. The memorial, a Celtic cross, is in memory of the church founder William Jones Loyd. The work was to

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be carried out the following spring.

The team at P&S Property Management first carried out a survey for the client and proposed how they would approach the job. They next delivered a project plan and a fixed-cost proposal.

Access arrangements were co-ordinated with the client and the work was scheduled to avoid disruption to the public. Appropriate access equipment for the job was supplied in the form of a scaffold tower and work was scheduled for the 5 April 2018.

Super-heated steam cleaning of the marble statue and intricate carvings was carried out using the specialist DOFF cleaning system from Stonehealth. That removed the heavy staining and cleaned all the stone surfaces. To finish, they applied a biocidal coating to give protection and enhance long-term appearance.

P&S Property management were very proud to have been part of the cleaning and restoration of the monument, which will stand proud for many years to come.

The company can restore and clean all stone and marble memorials, easily removing several decades of pollutants, grime and weathered staining. They can remove graffiti, or simply enhance the visual appearance of the stone in question. The process also removes algae growth and kills moss on stone and pathways. q

Leadwork demonstrates what can be achieved [AS ONE OF the oldest and most recyclable

materials available, lead is still the most versatile product used in the modern roofing sector.

The pictures here show two examples of the craft from one practitioner based in the South East. The picture on the left shows a Code 6 lead flat roof installed on a Grade Two-listed property in the village of Marden in Kent, while the one on the right shows Code 6 lead cladding installed on the roof of Merchant Taylors’ Hall in London. Both were carried out

by Finnwood Roofing of Rye in East Sussex.

Finnwood Roofing undertake every aspect of leadwork, including the replacement of lead flashing. They specialise in ornate and decorative features and have worked on

buildings in Kent, East Sussex and many other locations across the South East, including in London. q

Training centre stays open through lockdown [FOLLOWING THE GOVERNMENT announcement regarding the

lockdown measures in November, the Lead Sheet Training Academy (LSTA) confirmed that it will remain open during the period and its apprenticeships and training courses will continue as planned.

Bookings are also being taken for both lead and hard metal training courses into the future.

In a statement issued on 4 November, the day before the latest lockdown took effect, the LSTA said: “We have strict COVID measures in place and will continue to closely monitor the advice and guidance given to us to ensure we best meet our customer needs.”

CITB funding is available for companies registered and paying into the Levy scheme. Alternatively, interested parties should speak to their local roof training group representative for more information on funding. q

Has your leadworker got the right stuff?

[THE Lead Sheet Training Academy is at the forefront of training for

those using lead or hard metals in the construction industry.

It is the one-stop-shop for information on courses and qualifications in lead and hard metals, listing those qualified to a range of standards.

While many qualified leadworkers are employed by larger contractors, many others provide their own bespoke services.

The businesses here all meet the rigorous standards for heritage work set by the LSTA. q

Black Dog Roofing T: 01249 321969 M: 07808 840491 E: blackdogroofing1@outlook.com W: www.blackdogroofing.co.uk

M P Hare Ltd

Specialists in: • Conservation Roofing • Lead Sheeting Association Standard • Leadwork including Welding • Slating, Tiling and Stone Tiling

The Shaw, Kiln Barn Road, East Malling, Kent ME19 6BG

Landsdowne Close, Calne, Wiltshire SN11 9DR

T: 01732 842655 M: 07971 902631 E: marc@mphareheritageworks.com W: www.mphareheritageworks.com

• EPDM Flat Roofs • Green Roofs • Installation of Cast • Guttering

www.ecclesiasticalandheritageworld.co.uk

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Murdoch Awards go online with video presentations

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IN COMMON WITH many trade association award ceremonies this year, the Lead Contractors Association’s Murdoch Awards for leadwork are to be found online – victims of the COVID-19 pandemic.

That did not stop the LCA from treating us to some stunning pictures of all the entries for what has become a trio of awards since the addition of the Murdoch Ornamental Award, sponsored by BLM British Lead.

The various YouTube videos were introduced by luminaries from the organisers and sponsors. First up was Allan Anderson, chairman of the LCA, who thanked the sponsor, Associated Lead Mills (ALM), and introduced the entries and winner of the ‘main’ Murdoch Award – named after Richard Murdoch, known as ’Mr Lead’. The award would be announced by Dr Linda Murdoch, following the family tradition.

Allan thanked her for her work on behalf of us all in the NHS’s fight against COVID-19.

After a number of videos showcasing the entries for this year’s award, the finalists were announced: Architectural Lead and Metalwork for 55-93 Knightsbridge, GSL Southern Ltd for a Grade One-listed house in Hampshire and Richardson Roofing for Forbes House in London.

The winner was announced as GSL Southern for the Hampshire

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project (above left). We were then treated to some drone flyover shots that showed the project off to best advantage.

The Murdoch Sponsor’s Award is for smaller projects. The entries for that prize were introduced by ALM’s sales and marketing director Paul Walters.

The finalists in that competition were Clarke Roofing Southern Ltd for Highmead Manor in Eastbourne, Furlong and Davies for Tan Y Fron in North Wales and Greyfriars Roofing for Younger Hall at St Andrews.

Paul opened the envelope to declare Clarke Roofing Southern the winner for the beautifully-executed dome to a belvedere in Eastbourne (above centre).

The newest addition to the Murdoch Awards stable, the Murdoch Ornamental Award, was introduced by Adrian Farley, commercial director of sponsor BLM British Lead.

The finalists were Architectural Lead and Metalwork for the Cannon Fountain in Stamford, Conservation Leadwork Ltd for Berkley Square in London and Turners Ornamental Leadwork for the Laidler Bowl. The winner of that coveted prize was Conservation Leadwork Ltd for Berkley Square (above right).

This year all the finalists received special trophies to mark their achievements as well as the overall winners. q

Training centre of excellence for roofers opens in Salford [AT THE END of a challenging year for

many of us, there is at last some great news for the roofing industry. A state-of-the-art training facility in the North West of England is opening its doors to the first of many trainees keen to further their knowledge and skills in the roofing sector.

National Construction Training Services (NCTS) have partnered with Master Roofers to set up a unique training academy in Salford, Greater Manchester. Although other roofing training facilities exist in the North West, none can offer lead and hard metals training in that area, and for some time contractors have been expressing a need for training in the sector without having to travel hundreds of miles.

NCTS’s managing director Nigel Johnston explained: “As part of our expansion plans we decided to join up with Master Roofers, which has over 14,000 members – all contractors ranging from sole traders to much larger companies.

“Many of those members have not hitherto been able to train, or now need upskilling.

This joint venture will offer them easy access to all their training needs, either at Salford in the North West or at our other training academy in Hoddesdon. By working together we will become a stronger brand both in the North and South of the country.”

The training academy is within easy reach of the M602 and suitable accommodation is just a few minutes’ walk away.

Master Roofers’ managing director Stewart Rowles explained the thinking behind the brand-new training facility.

“When we first began our discussions, our aims were very clear: to change the way training was delivered in roofing, and to create an inspiring training experience.

OSAT assessments are carried out on site “We have thrown out the old norms – the repetitive rigs, the simplified exercises – and our design process was clear: we wanted challenging and comprehensive roof setups, real-life situations in a workshop environment and, above all, for the student experience to be exciting and inspiring.”

The aim is that all tutors will also be qualified assessors and vice versa, offering a complete, bespoke training and assessment package.

Both centres will also carry the ‘Richard Murdoch Training Centre for Excellence’ accolade, among many other industryrecognised accreditations.

No expense has been spared in the design of the Salford premises, to fulfil the aims set out by the new partnership. The rigs have unusual detailing, to offer a level of excellence unrivalled elsewhere, and there is also a fully kitted-out classroom, together

Stewart Rowles (left) and Nigel Johnston show off the new training centre in Salford

with canteen, office and toilet facilities.

Needless to say, the NCTS curriculum is designed to offer skills and development to everyone within the roofing industry.

“From beginners to experienced tradespeople, we can offer a range of industry-recognised qualifications designed to help you make the next move in your career, improve in a niche area or simply gain more confidence,” said Nigel.

The range of courses available at each centre covers sector-specific training, such as qualifications in lead and hard metals, slating and tiling, and health and safety.

In addition, the on-site assessment and training (OSAT) programme is an efficient route for experienced workers without formal qualifications to obtain recognition of their skills by obtaining an NVQ Level 2 or Level 3. Those assessments are carried out on site, reducing the amount of time the candidate has to spend off site.

In the past, experienced lead and hard metal workers were issued CSCS cards through the industry accreditation process – also known as ‘grandfather rights’ – through employer recommendations rather than the achievement of a recognised qualification. CSCS closed that process to new applicants in 2010, but existing cardholders have been allowed to renew on the same basis.

However, from 1 January 2020, all cards renewed under the industry accreditation or grandfather rights will expire on 31 December 2024, and CSCS will stop issuing the cards from 30 June of that year.

Back at the two training centres, lead and hard metal courses are almost fully booked to the end of the year, and enquiries and bookings for slating and tiling training are going through the roof – literally!

Said Nigel: “We are of course keeping to government guidelines, so we won’t be running our courses at maximum capacity – we’ve already experienced closure of courses at Hoddesdon at the beginning of lockdown last March, but since then the tide has turned as far as enthusiasm for training is concerned.

“The centre in Salford is already a big talking point in the roofing sector; and once the first courses are underway we’re confident that bookings will be coming in thick and fast.” q • For information on any of the training and/ or assessment available at either of the two centres, visit either the NCTS or Master Roofers website. Bookings on any of the courses may also be made via telephone on 01992 801914 or email training@ncts.org.uk. www.ecclesiasticalandheritageworld.co.uk

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Roofs top off restoration projects ahead of City of Culture year [ COVENTRY IS a very busy city

right now, with a plethora of projects nearing completion in anticipation of its year as City of Culture next year.

Two of them involve roofing projects on historic buildings.

A variety of new roofs in both slate and clay tiles (right) have formed a major part of the restoration of The Burges in the city – the main road running north from the old marketplace in Coventry’s city centre.

Historic Coventry Trust (HCT) was given the major grant for the Burges and nearby Hales Street by the Department for Digital, Culture Media & Sport as a demonstrator project for its £95m High Streets Heritage Action Zone programme, led by Historic England.

The project is in partnership with Coventry City Council and Coventry BID and is part of the wider work to get the city ready to host UK City of Culture.

The name The Burges was first documented in 1223 and probably comes from ‘Between the Bridges’. In 1794 The Burges was widened and buildings on the eastern side of the street were rebuilt in brick, hiding earlier buildings behind the new facades.

Carol Pyrah, executive director of HCT – which was set up to acquire and restore Coventry’s heritage buildings to preserve them for future generations – commented: “The Burges is one of the few traditional high streets remaining in Coventry and it offers something different and unique because of the number of independent businesses.”

Historic Coventry Trust has also been behind the £8m restoration of the Grade One-listed Charterhouse building – one of Coventry’s finest medieval buildings.

In July contractors completed the restoration of the building’s ancient roof timbers (below), allowing the roof to be retiled with hand-made clay roof tiles and the interior fit out to commence.

After finding that the original roof was collapsing and causing damage to historic wall paintings discovered in the building below, a

decision was made by Historic England to use modern steels to tie the roof together.

The work, overseen by Birmingham-based PCPT Architects and Historic England, has made the building structurally sound, while having minimum impact on the original oak roof timbers which have been restored.

A number of discoveries have been made as part of the restoration, including burn marks on the roof timbers made by candles some 500 years ago, which were an ancient ritual to protect the building against lightning and fire. q

Martin-Brooks (Roofing Specialists) Ltd T: 0114 244 7720 E: mb@allroofing.co.uk W: www.martin-brooks.co.uk

Ross Street, Darnall, Sheffield, South Yorkshire S9 4PU

www.ecclesiasticalandheritageworld.co.uk

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New for old: for cast iron this is the top team [THE UK’S LEADING STOCKIST and online retailer of metal

rainwater goods has teamed up with a historic working foundry with its own pattern-making shop and dedicated design team. Rainclear Systems will work with Hargreaves on their customers’ behalf to produce nonstandard cast iron rainwater components to replicate existing perished components – replacing like-for-like but brand new, designed to last another 100-plus years.

Heritage properties often contain atypical building shapes and designs. If a building has non-standard specifications, Rainclear and Hargreaves can help source and supply guttering with non-standard angles or special configurations.

Pictured are a batch of 11 bespoke hoppers designed to replicate existing or replace like-for-like hoppers that Rainclear has worked with the customer and the team at Hargreaves to produce.

The process included: • The wooden pattern • The molten iron being poured into the sand casts • The cast hoppers cooling in the workshop • And finally, the replacement hoppers in situ on the building Hargreaves are able to offer that service because they are a working foundry with their own pattern-making shop and dedicated design team. Rainclear Systems have the experience, passion and established relationship with them to help achieve all non-standard rainwater requirements.

The friendly, knowledgeable team at Rainclear Systems are always happy to offer technical advice and quotations. q

The wooden pattern

• Visit www.rainclear.co.uk to browse and buy the cast iron ranges online; but if you can’t find what you’re looking for there, have questions or need any help, call 0800 644 4426 or email sales@rainclear.co.uk.

The molten iron being poured into the sand casts

The cast hoppers cooling in the workshop

The replacement hoppers in situ on the building

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First roofers become accredited [ THE FIRST 50 ROOFERS to become officially ‘accredited’

by RoofCERT, the UK’s only accreditation scheme for roofing operatives, received their certificates in September.

The NFRC’s RoofCert is professionalising the roofing industry, by helping roofing operatives to demonstrate their competency and roofing contractors to upskill their teams. The first batch of 50 come from 10 different companies.

To achieve accreditation, roofers must pass a rigorous knowledge test, undertake six health and safety awareness courses, and demonstrate their roofing competence via practical assessment.

The operatives will need to renew their accreditation again in three years, to ensure they keep to up to date with changing standards and regulations.

Head of qualifications and standards at RoofCERT, Richard Miller, commented: “These 50 roofers should be incredibly proud of themselves. They have demonstrated their technical knowledge, their understanding of six core areas of health and safety as well as their ability and competency in their particular disciplines. They are now proven to be masters of their craft, and this should stand

them in good stead for their future career. I would like to thank all the companies who have supported RoofCERT by putting these operatives through the process.

“The construction industry is only going in one direction, and that is towards a greater focus on competency and professionalism. We know that there are going to be new regulations around building safety and greater expectations around competency down the line, and these roofers are now future proofed for the changes to come.

“There are almost 2,000 funded places currently available for other operatives to do the same, and they should do so before the places go. We have made many changes to ensure we can still accredit roofers through the COVID-19 pandemic, via methods such as e-learning awareness courses and online tests.

“We have seen a surge in demand for the scheme recently and places are starting to go. So, if you are a roofing contractor thinking about putting your team through the process, or an operative who wants to prove their competency, I would urge you to join these first 10 companies and 50 roofers and sign up now”. q

Award-nominated cathedral work benefits from landfill grant [ONE OF THE PROJECTS to be shortlisted in this year’s Roofing

Awards – all of which have been carried over to next year after the awards ceremony fell victim to the COVID restrictions – is the reroofing of the South Quire Tribune of Canterbury Cathedral.

The project, which has been nominated in the Lead Roofing category of the awards, was carried out by Full Metal Jacket Ltd following the award of a major grant by Viridor Credits.

Viridor Credits Environmental Company is an independent, not-forprofit organisation which provides funding for community, heritage and biodiversity projects around the UK through the Landfill Communities Fund and Scottish Landfill Communities Fund.

The roof work ensures that the fabric of the 12th-century quire remains a safe and accessible environment for worshippers, for musicians to perform in and for the one million people who visit annually.

Director of Works Mark Sharratt said: “We are hugely grateful for the generous donation made by Viridor Credits. Canterbury Cathedral relies on donations such as this to protect its precious fabric and to conserve and maintain its 1,400-year legacy of social and architectural history.”

Gareth Williams, operations manager at Viridor Credits, commented: “It’s vitally important to protect and conserve our wonderful heritage. Viridor

Credits is excited to once again be involved with the great work being carried out at Canterbury Cathedral.” q

www.ecclesiasticalandheritageworld.co.uk

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Residential conversion is a Roofing Award contender

[

ONE OF THE shortlisted projects in the Lead Roofing category of the 2020 Roofing Awards was a listed residential property at 53 Barton Mill Road in the historic centre of Canterbury.

The Barton Mill complex was the only surviving medieval mill in the city of Canterbury, but it was damaged by fire early this century. 53 Barton Mill Road is a mid-terrace property: timber framed with later 18th-century red brick and stone elevations under a Kent peg tile roof. The building was used as offices for the mill complex and converted to a dwelling in 2005.

As part of the conversion a new lead-covered roof was constructed over the stairwell between 53 and 51 Barton Mill Road. Some dampness had

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been noticed below the lead roof by the owner as early as 2008, but the cause had never been properly identified and the problem became much more severe in 2019 – prompting the owners to contact local roofing and heritage conservation specialists John Williams & Company (Contracting) Ltd, to request an investigation and report. A full intrusive investigation was completed by managing director John Howland and contracts manager Paul Wardle, and a full written report and photographic evidence provided for the client’s consideration.

The lead roof was found to be suffering from very serious underside corrosion, which had in many places fully penetrated the lead sheet. The

cause was thought to be a combination of poor design and possible issues with the extract ventilation from the bathroom.

A complex problem The roof consisted of Code 5 lead sheet laid in bays on a geotextile underlay over plywood – a typical generic cross-section drawing showing the roof construction at the point of investigation was included in the report.

The design of the roof did not comply with LSTA recommendations in several respects, but particularly regarding thermal design and the minimum down-stand into the gutters.

John Howland explained: “It appeared from our investigation that the roof had been constructed as a ‘warm roof’ design. The foil-backed plasterboard ceiling was acting as a vapour control layer, but in that position and with holes through it for downlights the effectiveness was likely to be poor – added to which, it is technically incorrectly positioned: it should be immediately below the insulation layer.

“It was obvious that for this to work as a lead roof significant alteration would need to be carried out to the design in order to provide a ‘ventilated warm roof’ as recommend by the LSTA. Limitations in height added to the complexity of achieving that.

However, a proposal was put forward and a design drawn up to provide a fully-ventilated warm roof.”

Three alternative prices were given for consideration by the client and ultimate approval by the local authority. They were: • Ventilated warm roof with lead sheet covering • Warm roof with GRP covering • Warm roof with reinforced bituminous • membrane (RBM) covering Following discussions with a local surveyor and the local conservation officer, the owners decided to go with the lead option.

The work was to be carried out by the contractor’s senior leadworker, teamed with a newly-enrolled trainee who would shortly be starting his NVQ in Leadwork. Before any work commenced the team was fully briefed on the history and the specific requirements of the project.

The whole process from initial investigation to final proposal was discussed and the design explained and agreed in detail, so that the whole team was fully involved and completely in agreement with the proposed detailing.

The team were aware that the owners’ expectation was for work to be complete and the site cleared by the Christmas break. That was going to be a tight schedule, but it was agreed that it was achievable with commitment and good planning.

Workmanship As there was not going to be a temporary roof over the property, the programme of work would be assessed on a day-to-day basis based on the prevailing weather conditions.

Initially the existing lead box gutters were left in position with the lead sheet roof completely removed and temporarily covered with a robust waterproof membrane draining into the original gutters. The membrane could then be quickly and easily pulled back and reinstated as necessary, depending upon the weather conditions.

Throughout the project heavy showers were forecast, which made it very important that a flexible arrangement was in place for being able to open up the work area quickly and to just as quickly cover it up again.

The original plywood decking was removed together with the insulation.

It was then discovered that the extract vent pipe from an en suite terminated within the void between the original external wall and the stud wall of the en suite. That was causing a massive amount of warm, moist air to be discharged into the void and under the roof covering. That explained why the underside corrosion on the original lead sheet was so severe. The vent

pipe was connected to a new vent grill cut through the external wall and the pipe within the wall void was wrapped with insulation quilt.

At the earliest opportunity the box gutters were removed and renewed in Code 6 lead sheet. The upstand to the first lead bay was increased to 150mm and overflow systems were installed to ensure that a margin of safety would be available should the outlets become blocked. That was achieved by installing an overflow pipe on the rear elevation and a weir onto the outlet chute on the front elevation.

New Celotex GA 400 rigid insulation was installed to fully fill the roof void level with the top of the joists. All edges abutting joists and insulation joints were sealed with an approved mastic sealant. The insulation was then encapsulated within a layer of Alutrix vapour control membrane. Counterbattens were installed to provide a continuous air void from eave to apex.

Nicholson Airtrak ventilators were fitted to the bottom drip edge on both slopes and a ventilated ridge constructed utilising Airtrak ventilators. The new structural deck was constructed with 25mm sawn boarding with penny joints, and new Code 6 lead sheet was installed over a building paper underlay.

Project management In line with company policy the work would be managed by the initial inspecting member of staff – in this case the MD – providing a single point of contact for the client from initial investigation to final contract completion.

The assembled team were fully briefed from the outset and aware of the goals and potential pitfalls of the project. Regular site visits twice a week by the MD, with weekly meetings with the client, kept everyone up to date and fully involved.

John Howland continued: “Access and storage for materials was limited and therefore deliveries to site were kept to a minimum. The lead sheet was measured and cut at our store before being delivered in small quantities as required.

“The clients were particularly happy with the attention to detail and priority given to communication at all levels. Regular photographic evidence of progress was provided and on completion a written report was provided detailing the full history of the project from initial investigation to completion and including details for future maintenance.”

Regular and close co-operation between the contractor’s team and the client enabled the project to be completed on time and on budget despite less than ideal weather conditions.

A full CPP was produced for the contract, including a permit system for hot works. Hazardous waste was removed in accordance with HSE recommendations and disposed of accordingly.

John Howland explained: “The removed lead sheet was taken to a trusted scrap merchant for recycling. The only other waste produced was the rigid insulation board – which was taken back to our store for re-use in insulating an additional storage hut – and the plywood, which was taken back to our yard for use as temporary protection boards on future projects.

“The opportunity was taken to provide valuable experience for our latest leadwork trainee, who not only learnt about the practical aspects of leadwork from a very experienced craftsman but also a great deal about the design and performance characteristics of lead.”

The team was de-briefed following completion of the work to discover if any lessons could be learnt for future projects. It was agreed that the level of service provided to the client went a long way to establishing a very beneficial working environment and enhancing job satisfaction.

On completion of the project the client made the effort to contact the Listed Property Owners Club, from whom they had obtained the contractor’s details, to praise the level of service and quality of work received. q www.ecclesiasticalandheritageworld.co.uk

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What are the concerns when you source your heat from the ground?

Ground source heat pumps can be a great way to heat a listed home, but it is important to understand the full scope of the project and possible complications. Here, restoration and conservation experts ELLIS & CO run through some of the issues.

[CHANGING YOUR oil-feed

boiler to a ground source heat pump is just one part of a multi-layered process to make your listed property go green. The conflict between letting your traditionally-built house breathe and keeping it insulated is well known.

However, the complexities of installing a ground source heat pump into your old house is much more involved than removing your old oil boiler.

Ellis & Co have acted as main contractor for a number of installations in the South West over the past couple of years, including Greenham Barton Manor in Somerset.

MD Matthew Ellis explains: “We now spend hours of management time trying to resolve the issues which are thrown up. Every system we have been involved in has required an increase in electricity supply.”

That is because the heat pump will draw a lot of electricity – potentially needing to be three phases. Getting those supplies in can add thousands and may take months to organise, and will initially increase your annual electricity bill.

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The tanks required take up lots of space, too. Your house may have an ideal outbuilding or old boiler room to use; however, access can be tricky.

Matthew adds: “At Greenham Barton Manor we had to take a floor up to get three large cylinders in. There is always a fight for space between trades of whose equipment goes where.”

Ground source systems provide water heated to a lower temperature – typically 45-50ºC as opposed to 65ºC – so your heating system may need upgrading to make the most of the system.

“Achieving warm rooms with lower heated radiators and poor insulation can be a problem,” explained Matthew. We found underfloor heating to be the best solution in our projects; but even with just increasing radiator sizes, owners should be prepared that floors may need to come up.”

Ground source comes from either trenches or bore holes and any work below ground is an unknown. Matthew said: “We have started a project based on trenches and then had to switch to bore holes because of hard ground. That put the cost of the work up considerably.

You may also need to consider consulting an archaeologist in advance of the project.”

So, before embarking on a new way of heating your home, it is important to consider the heating, insulation and electricity demands on the property. Think about what else you have planned for the house over the next five to 10 years.

For instance, if the roof needs doing, with better breathable insulated roofing felts and insulation coming on the market you can now achieve a warmer house with a roof that breathes and keeps your heat in the property.

You must also consider any effects the work will have on your property and your home environment. Any installer’s work in connection with a new heating system must be done without damaging or altering the fabric of the listed building; and they must be knowledgeable about working on such properties.

The pictures above show how a ground source system with radiators can provide the heat previously supplied by a traditional single fireplace, while still allowing the fireplace to be retained as a beautiful focal point of the room.

However, as Matthew explains: “Despite these additional issues, ground source remain a great way of heating your house. The constant and lower temperatures are ideal for our historic homes. I am considering putting one in my house and I know our clients enjoy having a constantly warm home without having to pay large bills for other heating solutions which have a detrimental effect on the environment.” q

Engineers oversee Minster’s on-going restoration

[YORK MINSTER is currently undergoing a rolling restoration

programme that has included work to the Undercroft, Chapter House yard building and the approach to the South Transept, together with the repair of the Great East Window and the East Front.

The engineers on the refurbishment and enhancements to the Minster are The Morton Partnership. Further projects have included assessment of the Aculn Library, fire damage at the Stoneyard and several other properties owned by the Dean and Chapter, as well as the setting up of a ‘watch survey’ for the Minster.

A large scale, mainly National Lottery Heritage Fund funded project included the repair and conservation of the East Front masonry and

medieval stained glass, improvements to visitor and staff facilities and the updating of the Undercroft interpretation space, including providing access for all. Ed Morton was invited to become the Minster’s structural engineer for all the works – a role he still holds.

The final element was the new public piazza on the South Transept, including provision of new steps and ramps to improve access. The new ramps and steps required a good understanding of the construction of the existing steps, as well as the underlying archaeology. The latter was through localised slip trenches. That allowed the engineers to develop a structural proposal based on a philosophy of minimal impact on the archaeology below.

Ed Morton explained: “During construction we checked that the technical solution proposed was appropriate for the fully-exposed ground and the associated archaeology. Inevitably, some modifications were necessary to reduce the impact on local areas, mainly for services.

“The principle of the structural philosophy adopted was that the ground at formation level should be relatively well consolidated through past use. When at formation level we then used a heavy roller to run up and down, and further consolidate the sub-soil. Any soft spots were filled with hardcore and re-rolled and that action repeated until firm. Plate testing was used to verify load-bearing ability at formation level prior to construction of the new steps and ramp.” q

Town Hall is set for revamp [ROCHDALE’S ‘wonderful’ Town Hall has been given the green

light for a much-anticipated revamp, thanks to £8.3m of National Lottery funding. Located in the heart of Rochdale, the Grade Onelisted town hall is one of the most historically significant buildings in the UK. It is home to many remarkable historic features that have been described by Historic England as being rivalled in importance only by those within the Palace of Westminster.

The grant will support ambitious plans to restore the Town Hall, led by the council and Rochdale Development Agency. It will also fund works to make the building more accessible for the local community and visitors from further afield.

Precious parts of the 149-year-old structure set to be restored include the Magna Carta mural and ornate ceiling panels in the Great Hall. Historic rooms throughout the building, including the Mayor’s Parlour, will also be restored.

The project will bring previously neglected parts of the building into public use for the first time ever. A new ‘Bright Hall’ – named after Rochdale’s famous son, social reformer John Bright – is set to complement the Great Hall and will be a space for the community.

Ground floor areas previously used as meeting rooms will be turned into a brand new exhibition area, which is set to tell the story of Rochdale, its people and its history. q www.ecclesiasticalandheritageworld.co.uk

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To access a bridge for restoration, they built another one!

Twin Arch Bridge in North Yorkshire is an impressive structure that was built around 1847, when the Whitby-Pickering railway was upgraded from horse to steam power. Although the main railway was diverted away from the bridge in 1865, it remained in occasional use until the early 20th century. It now carries only walkers on the Rail Trail path over the Murk Esk. The Land of Iron project, funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund, provided the opportunity to conserve Twin Arch Bridge, among many other structures. The project was carried out by Burnleybased UK Restoration Services. Their project manager SCOTT GREEN describes the process.

[

WHEN WE ARRIVED on site the parapet walls were overgrown, with trees and shrubbery growing out of the walls. The roots of the vegetation had dislodged the masonry to such an extent that the wall was in a precarious position.

To access Twin Arch Bridge, we first had to tackle the farm access bridge. As with the Twin Arch Bridge, the farm access bridge was overgrown, with trees and shrubbery growing out of the pilasters.

The bridge was not an original part of the railway and was deemed unsuitable to carry the heavy machinery needed to restore the Twin Arch Bridge. The decision was taken to manufacture a new bridge and install that in its place.

The first job was to remove all the vegetation affecting the farm access bridge and dismantle the existing pilasters. Once that work had

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been completed, we could begin the rebuilding of the pilasters. It was soon discovered that additional masonry units would be required. We procured the new units from a quarry just four miles from the bridge. It has been suggested that the stone is such a good match that it could be the original quarry used in the construction of the railway bridges.

Upon completion of the masonry work, we brought in the new bridge which is constructed from galvanised steel beams and reclaimed oak railway sleepers. It was decided that the new bridge would be installed centrally to the pilasters as opposed to the previous bridge which was offset. Once the bridge was installed, we reinstated the track up to the bridge with cinders sourced from a local steam engine repair workshop, rendering the track in keeping with the Rail Trail.

As Twin Arch Bridge is located on a Site of Special Scientific Interest great care had to be taken every step of the way to ensure no lasting damage was caused to the surrounding area while the works were undertaken. To ensure no debris fell into the river we installed a suspended tarpaulin system that spanned the bridge underneath the string course. Once that had been installed we carried out the deconstruction and devegetation of the parapet walls and the string projection course.

Once deconstructed, we commenced with the rebuilding of the pilasters and parapet walls. We had the original lime mortar analysed, which gave us a specification to produce a mortar that closely matched the original. That was produced using hot lime and a local sand. During the reconstruction of the parapet walls we found that several new stone units were required.

Following the rebuilding of the parapet walls we installed a galvanised railing system to the same design as the original.

Due to the river scouring out the banking we brought in sandstone rock armour from the local quarry and installed it in such a way as to divert the stream away from the banking and thus prevent any more scouring out. To complete the works, we laid cinders on the track.

Tom Mutton, Land of Iron programme manager at the

Castle restoration paves the way to a grand reopening

North York Moors National Park, commented: “These bridges are a really important part of our local industrial heritage, yet were in a very vulnerable condition and at great risk. They are also located within a sensitive natural environment, among ancient woodland and over exceptional freshwater habitats. Furthermore, access to site is difficult and the popular Rail Trail footpath uses the bridges.

“UK Restoration Services approached the challenges with care and creativity, protecting the surroundings while carrying out first-class conservation work. We are delighted with the results, and that these bridges are now secure for many future generations to enjoy.” q

[

A MAJOR PROGRAMME of improvement works at Nottingham Castle has come to a successful conclusion – taking the castle a step closer to becoming a world-class visitor destination and heritage site.

As part of the £30m transformation of the castle, specialist restoration works and a brand-new visitor centre have now been handed over by Midlands-based contractor G F Tomlinson.

Funded by the National Lottery through the National Lottery Heritage Fund, D2N2 (the Local Enterprise Partnership for the region), Nottingham Castle Trust and Nottingham City Council, the work involved creating an extension to the Ducal Palace, significant mechanical and electrical works, specialist restoration, improved access to the underground cave network and the construction of the new visitors centre.

The completion of the construction phase is a significant landmark and keeps the project on track for the castle to re-open early next year.

G F Tomlinson was appointed by project lead Nottingham City Council following an established history of delivering heritage sector projects across the region.

Preservation of the site was paramount throughout the project, and one of the most complex elements of the build was work to the Grade One-listed Ducal Palace, which will house the new Robin Hood and Rebellion galleries, telling stories of the city’s legendary outlaw.

Stonework and lime plaster restoration was undertaken, with a particular focus of the sensitive restoration being to ensure repairs remained in line with the heritage of the original building.

The Ducal Palace, which dates back to the 1660s, now benefits from extensive roof repairs, including the refurbishment of roof tiles and the addition of new slate, roof lights and lead gutters. The roofing work was carried out by Martin-Brooks (Roofing Specialists) Ltd and was featured in Ecclesiastical and Heritage World earlier this year.

Chris Flint, director and general manager of G F Tomlinson, said: “After two years we are incredibly proud and honoured to be handing over this project, which has been a big part of our lives. It has brought much joy to our hardworking team to provide works for such a pivotal, historic landmark site – promoting and enhancing the rich heritage of Nottingham.

“While on site, we’ve been able to offer some amazing opportunities for people in the local vicinity and we are proud to have provided over 27,000 hours in social value initiatives: 97% of local labour was also sourced within 40 miles of site, with many Nottingham SMEs employed.” q www.ecclesiasticalandheritageworld.co.uk

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Hidden effects of lightning strikes keep lighting experts busy [THE MODERN EFFECTS of

lightning strikes in an electronic world were highlighted this summer with a record number of lightning storms in August.

Reflecting the more recent emphasis by standards on the effects of electrical surge on electronic equipment, the increase in strikes on churches kept specialist lighting and electrical firm CES Lighting particularly busy responding to call-outs where the lighting and other electrics had been damaged.

Senior partner Ryan Slessenger explained the situation in an interview with CREonline.

“We received half-a-dozen calls related to lightning strikes on some of the nation’s major churches, when we would normally get no more than a couple,” said Ryan. “Many churches suffered the effects of electrical surges from the lightning.”

David Burch, the company’s lighting design expert, took up

the story: “Surge protection devices are now a requirement of the regulations for new installations – and are strongly recommended for all existing systems. More sensitive electrical items such as audiovisual, lighting dimming systems, organs and clock mechanisms, may also need extra protection.”

The company successfully helped All Saints in Maidstone (left) overcome the major effects of a lightning strike last year, which wiped out the church’s lighting system and damaged much of the internal wiring. The church lost its spire in 1739 when it was struck by lightning and it was never rebuilt. This time it needed replacement of the internal wiring.

Ryan has particular expertise in the area. During the 25 years he has been with CES Lighting he took two years out when he was electrical officer on the mission ship MS Logos 11. q

Cuttings

The UK’s largest independent Lightning Protection & Earthing contractor Design, installation and maintenance • Lightning Protection • Earthing Services

The following companies are all specialists in Lightning Protection Systems: Direct Strike Ltd

Lightning Protection and Earthing Solutions • Lightning Protection • Inspection & Maintenance • BSEN 62305:2011 • Consultancy & Design Services • Supply & Installation • Earthing Systems • Height Safety & Fall Arrest Systems • Surge Protection

• Surge Protection

• Height Safety Services

Offices in London, Manchester, Sussex and Essex.

T: 020 8371 0001 E: info@cuttings.co.uk W: cuttings.co.uk

10-12 Arcadia Avenue, Finchley Central, London N3 2JU

Horizon Specialist Contracting Ltd

With over 25 years experience our in-house design team are trained and certified to the current British & European Standards BS EN 62305:2011 for Lightning Protection Systems and BS 7430:2011 for Earthing.

• Lightning Protection Systems and Surge Protection Design • Testing and Inspection surveys • Steeplejack maintenance • Fall arrest safety systems

Head Office: 01461 337951 Rep of Ireland: +353 45 913 129

E: enquiries@directstrike.co.uk W: www.directstrike.co.uk 18 Canberra Road, Gretna, Dumfriesshire, Scotland DG16 5DP

South West Lightning Protection T: 07807 334441 E: south@lightningconductor.org W: www.lightningconductor.org

Airport Business Centre, 10 Thornbury Road, Estover, Plymouth PL6 7PP

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T: 0115 965 7400 E: sales@horizonsc.co.uk W: www.horizonsc.co.uk Unit 7, Burma Road, Blidworth, Nottinghamshire NG21 0RT

Lightning Protection Services

North(Head office): 01461 800323 South: 01582 511036 N.E: 01914 661145 E: info@lightningconductor.co.uk W: www.lightningconductor.co.uk

Campaign aims to make keeping buildings safe easier [ATLAS – the trade body representing the lightning protection

industry – promotes an Inspect and Protect campaign to raise quality standards for the testing and inspection of lightning protection systems. The campaign was launched following an awareness that there is an increasing number of companies who are not qualified or competent to undertake the specialist work.

Says ATLAS: “With over 300,000 lightning strikes in the UK every year, organisations should have a lightning protection system installed to protect their building, its occupants and contents from potential damage in the event of a strike.”

The campaign refers specifically to buildings seen as ‘critical structures’, which includes churches and other heritage buildings.

ATLAS states: “Buildings which are classed as ‘critical’ should have their lightning protection system visually inspected every six months, with electrical testing performed once a year.

“Electrical testing should be undertaken every year by a competent person who has the training and experience of working within the

Nostra culpa!

[ IN Issue 84 of Ecclesiastical and Heritage World we referred to

the Lightning Protection Standard BS EN 62304. A number of readers identified the keystroke error in that statement: the standard is in fact BS EN 62305.

Our only defence lies in the celebrated epithet that ‘only God is perfect’, as Eadfrith is said to have recognised in the illustrations of the Lindisfarne Gospels by introducing deliberate errors! q

Rafferty Lightning Protection 70 years experience in the steeplejack and lightning protection industries • Surveys • Risk Assessments • Design and Installation to BSEN 62305 • Specialist Earthing • Annual Testing, Inspection & Maintenance • Surge Protection

T: 01782 834567 E: enquiries@rafferty1949.com W: www.rafferty-steeplejacks.com Nash Peake Works, Tunstall, Stoke-on-Trent ST6 5BT

Dawson Steeplejacks Specialising in all areas of working at height

Specialising in all areas of working at height, from restoration of ancient buildings through to the repair and installation of lightning conductors • Lightning Conductors • Restoration • Weather Vanes • HVI Lightning Protection Systems • Surge Protection

T: 01934 876665 E: dawson@dawsonsteeplejacks.co.uk W: dawsonsteeplejacks.co.uk The Stable, Wick Lane, Hewish, North Somerset BS24 6RR

Harrison Lightning Protection & Earthing Ltd

lightning protection industry. ATLAS recommends that clients use the services of a specialist contractor which has the knowledge and skills to test and inspect the system in line with its design and installation.

“Additional testing will also be required to the lightning protection system after any building remedial works have taken place.”

According to ATLAS, its Inspect and Protect campaign aims to establish clear standards of competency for testing and inspection work. That includes promoting the right formal qualifications and ensuring clients use reputable companies, with a track record of lightning protection work, which will provide a formal outline of the work to be undertaken.

To help clients to identify an experienced lightning protection professional, ATLAS has developed a leaflet – Choosing a Specialist Contractor for your Lightning Protection System – outlining the skills and experience that they should look for when choosing a specialist contractor.

Clients are encouraged to use it in conjunction with the Client Checklist for Lightning Protection Systems to ensure that the specialist contractor provides a thorough inspection of your system in line with the current British Standard.

More information, and links to the two publications, is available on the website at atlas.org.uk/inspect-protect/. q

Wiltshire Steeplejacks

and Lightning Conductor Engineers Trading for over 40 years, we specialise in: • Lightning protection systems • BS EN 62305 & BS 6651 • Earthing and resistivity testing • High maintenance work • Bird control • All rope access work • Full architectural surveys & cover meter surveys T: 01225 761330 M: 07973 397770 E: wiltssteeplejack@aol.com W: www.wiltshiresteeplejacks.co.uk The Coach House, 5 Court Street, Trowbridge, Wiltshire BA14 8BR

A C Wallbridge & Co Ltd Steeplejacks and Lightning Conductor Engineers

Providing lightning protection services since 1978 Installation, maintenance and testing of lightning protection systems, utilising rope access systems for safe access.

• Cathedrals • Churches • Towers • Sports Centres

• High Rise Office Blocks • High Rise Residential Blocks • Schools • Hospitals

T: 01722 322750 E: mail@wallbridge.co.uk W: www.wallbridge.co.uk Unit 7, Centre One, Lysander Way, Old Sarum, Salisbury SP4 6BU

Lightning Strike Ltd Lightning Protection and Earthing Specialist for Churches and Historic Properties • Lightning Conductor Testing • Earthing Systems • Earthing System Testing • Surge Protection • Safe Strike ESE Systems • Soil Resistivity Testing

T: 01325 464464 E: contact@harrisonlp.co.uk W: www.harrisonlp.co.uk

T: 01158 752686 M: 07581 266493 E: info@lightningstrikeltd.co.uk W: www.lightningstrikeltd.co.uk

2 Lakeland Estate, Faverdale North, Darlington, County Durham DL3 0PX

11 Bedford Grove, Bulwell, Nottingham NG6 9DE

www.ecclesiasticalandheritageworld.co.uk

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How can we rise to the new challenge of carbon neutral by 2030?

A committee member of the Building Limes Forum, Isle of Man architect ASHLEY PETTIT reveals ways in which building lime can form an integral part of the process to help churches reduce their carbon footprint.

Malew Church on the Isle of Man in 1900 (left) and now (right)

[

THE CHURCH OF ENGLAND has revised its target to be carbon neutral from 2045 to 2030: that’s 10 years to change the habit of a lifetime. The developed world has been energy careless for 100 years, since oil and then natural gas allowed us to exploit fossil fuels for energy. Cheap energy has allowed us to adopt bad habits: churches are uninsulated with large boilers pushing hot water around big metal pipes; latecomers open the large doors and let a wild draught steal any warmth that has been generated; and the last one out often leaves the boiler running.

Before approaching the church authorities for a loan to replace an old boiler with a new low-energy model, let’s think about how we can adjust our habits and reduce our carbon footprint.

We can offset the energy we use. Indeed if you opt for air-source heat pumps that utilise the difference in outside temperature to heat water for your old pipes, you will still use electricity to run the pumps; and in winter that uses more electricity. You could plant trees or grow plants like hemp which ‘sequester’ carbon dioxide; however, there may be other ways the church community can offset carbon emissions to be carbon neutral.

The first step must be to look at our buildings. Can we make them more energy efficient? If we take a typical church, it has a large nave, maybe transepts and a smaller chancel. It tends to have thick walls and a high ceiling, large window openings and large doors, more recently adapted for wheelchair access with time delays.

Attending Evensong at a cathedral, one may be ushered into the more cosy choir stalls: can we use our buildings more efficiently by allocating appropriate space for services? That may mean partitioning off areas or using curtains or screens to reduce the area needing to be heated. Maybe we could select areas that we can keep warm for older people or as an area of refuge for visitors taking advantage of tea and toilets during the week.

Malew Church, in the Manx village of Ballasalla, is a case in point.

In 1900 it used to have a low ceiling, but was improved with a raised roof with arts and crafts trusses and Westmoreland slates: beautiful but uninsulated.

How do we manage those roof voids? For a while in offices we had

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simple fans that drove the warm air down, but they were unpopular as they ‘redistributed’ paperwork. Maybe we could have warm-air systems that do the same task and warm our feet. It is a fact that we are most comfortable with heat at our feet and prefer our heads cooler. Schemes with heated ceilings proved to be very unpopular. Perhaps we could have a tent structure within our church buildings, keeping the heat in at a lower level. They could be very dramatic and add rather than distract from the present fabric.

We need to investigate lobby doors and maybe use different entrances depending on the prevailing wind. Glazing is more difficult, as many churches have stained glass which both cuts down the natural light and can be draughty. Cold air is heavier than warm air, so cold air drops from the top of the window and accelerates to be felt as a draught at the bottom: it is not necessarily leaking air from the outside.

When we had cheap fuel we would counter that with a radiator ‘under the window’. However, I have seen clever designs that allow the cold air to be diverted behind panelling – or maybe we just have to sit people further away from windows.

Let’s consider walls. Firstly, thick walls can act as a heat sink that warms during the summer and continues to give out heat if working properly. Walls have to be dry and finished with sympathetic materials – and if we are to remain carbon neutral, those with a low carbon footprint.

There is an excellent article in IHBC’s Context 614 by Robyn Pender on Rethinking Retrofit. Robyn is senior architectural conservator at Historic England and she argues that we should learn from history.

Medieval tapestries were hung adjacent to cold walls for the comfort of the person sitting next to them. They went out of fashion during the Georgian period, came back with the Victorians and were then discarded again by the modern movement, who enjoyed technology and wasted oil to heat large white-walled spaces. We even discarded cosy curtains for thin blinds and louvres.

Back to walls: stone and brick walls are best served by lime mortars.

Wet walls can be dried out by using very lime-rich mixes, often applied as hot mixes using calcium oxide straight from the kiln. There are hydraulic limes and formulated mixes, which are harder and generally

used at higher levels where scaffold access can be expensive.

Building limes are produced at lower temperatures than cements and re-absorb carbon dioxide during their curing. They also allow buildings to be adapted or dismantled without waste, as the bond with the stone or brick can be broken and both mortar and stone reused. Internally, lime mortar plaster is warm to the touch and can be purchased as an insulating plaster to improve insulation against a north-facing wall, for example. These have fibres added Before the Georgian era, wall hangings and drapes helped keep out the cold – note the appropriate clothing to improve thermal performance.

Some use hemp fibres, which we have already mentioned as purpose – most damp starts there. Make sure the drains are clear and sequesters of carbon. the feet of the building are dry; cut away bushes and keep soil away Any new heating system should be able to heat different zones and from the building. each should be controlled using intelligent systems. There are solar Consider the option of the church becoming an associate member heating systems for hot water, and other panels to convert sunlight to of the Building Limes Forum (BLF), which will provide you with contact electricity; plus, boiler technology is developing all the time. You might with other BLF members who have the skills you need to manage and consider underfloor heating, which often involves installing pipework maintain your building correctly. for hot water to circulate below a solid floor. Personally, I prefer electric If you have funding for underfloor heating, a limecrete floor provides heating – either underfloor or using radiators with clever controls. a sympathetic way of installing flooring in an historic building. Most The 2030 target means you have at most 10 years – probably five – of those buildings pre-existed cheap energy, and properly maintained to make decisions about how best to use your building so it is energy can provide comfortable spaces for your church to serve its community efficient, and what changes to make to the layout. After that, it will take beyond 2030. q time to obtain the required faculty and possibly planning permission.

What you can do in the meantime is start with the fabric of the • As well as being a committee member of the Building Limes Forum, building: look to remove cement-based pointing and renders. You Ashley Pettit is a member of the Institute of Historic Building Conservation should ensure the rainwater goods are in good repair and fit for (IHBC). He was previously an architect in private practice.

www.ecclesiasticalandheritageworld.co.uk

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Work begins on world-famous chain bridge [

WORK HAS BEGUN on the restoration of the famous Union Chain Bridge, which spans the River Tweed between Northumberland and the Scottish Borders. The project is being carried out by contractors Spencer Group and is expected to take around 18 months.

The Category A/Grade One-listed bridge is the oldest operational chain suspension bridge in the world still carrying vehicles.

Completed in 1820, it heralded a new era in bridge building in the UK. Built by Captain Samuel Brown, who is famous for pioneering the use of chains in bridges, it was the first chain suspension bridge in Europe to carry wheeled traffic.

The innovative manufacturing and engineering techniques employed on the bridge were hugely influential in the development of suspension bridges around the world.

It is another significant step for the structure, which provides a key transport link between Scotland and England and received £3.14m from The National Lottery Heritage Fund in September 2019.

The ambitious funding bid was put together by Northumberland County Council, Scottish Borders Council, Museums Northumberland and community group Friends of the Union Chain Bridge, following serious concerns about the condition of the world-famous structure.

Both councils have committed match funding totalling £5.7m towards the £10.5m scheme, with other fundraising activities continuing to be progressed by the Friends of Union Chain Bridge in support of the project. Historic England has also confirmed a £250,000 grant towards the scheme.

As well as conserving the historic structure, the project team has developed interpretation proposals and a comprehensive programme of community engagement and education activities.

David Renwick, director for the North of England at the National Lottery Heritage Fund, said: “We are delighted to see that the work to ensure the iconic Union Chain Bridge is progressing and that,

through a programme of ambitious activities, our funding will provide exciting opportunities for people to explore the heritage and stories of this wonderful structure.

“It is heartening for us to see that this fantastic heritage scheme – that will improve transport links and connectivity for the area extending across the Scotland-England border – is well underway, and in turn we hope to see economic growth of the area increase further.”

Rowan Brown from Museums Northumberland said: “We're delighted to be working with Spencer Group, as well as our evergrowing number of project partners, to deliver new community resources, engaging activities, shared learning opportunities, and to celebrate our incredible bridge.”

Robbie Hunter from Friends of the Union Chain Bridge said: “This year we are celebrating the 200th anniversary of an engineering icon – the opening of this bridge revolutionised bridge building. Its importance has been recognised by the presentation of a plaque by the Japanese and American Institutions of Civil Engineers – one of fewer than 100 engineering landmarks to have received such an accolade.” q

Teen blacksmith wows them in Lancashire [

A YOUNG BLACKSMITH from Lancashire is making waves with his designs in wrought iron.

Oscar Duck, of Clitheroe, began his blacksmithing journey when he was just 13.

Inspired by a book to make his own bows and

Oscar at work in his forge arrows, he spent months building a forge in the family garden. In an interview with local press he explained how he utilised household items such as his mother’s hairdryer and a

claw hammer to make arrowheads.

He explains: “A year or two later I got in contact with a local smith, Bill Carter of Trapp Forge, who helped me progress my skills. I worked with Bill for three years before branching out on my own.

“Now I am looking forward to expanding my own blacksmithing business and progressing even further in the craft of blacksmithing.”

Oscar’s work is being showcased at the Northern Star exhibition, a Christmas crafts exhibition in Clitheroe. Currently closed because of coronavirus restrictions, the show is due to reopen on 2 December until Christmas Eve. q www.ecclesiasticalandheritageworld.co.uk

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ANTIQUE FURNITURE RESTORATION

ARCHIVE STORAGE BOXES

ARBORICULTURAL CONSULTANTS

BATHROOMS

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BELLS

BUILDING SERVICES

BUSINESSES FOR SALE

BOOK & PAPER CONSERVATION CARVERS – MASTER CARVERS ASSOCIATION

BUILDING CONSERVATION & RESTORATION

CHURCH HEATING & INSULATION

CHURCH LINEN

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CLOCKS

DISASTER RECOVERY

ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING

EXHUMATION SERVICES

DAMP SPECIALISTS

FIREPLACES, STOVES & CHIMNEYS

DISABLED ACCESS

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HAND SANITISER STATIONS

HYMNODY

JOINERY

LANDSCAPING

LEADED LIGHTS

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LEADWORKERS – LCA MEMBERS

LIGHTING & SOUND

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Lightning Protection Services

North(Head office): 01461 800323 South: 01582 511036 N.E: 01914 661145 E: info@lightningconductor.co.uk W: www.lightningconductor.co.uk

A C Wallbridge & Co Ltd Steeplejacks and Lightning Conductor Engineers

Providing lightning protection services since 1978 Installation, maintenance and testing of lightning protection systems, utilising rope access systems for safe access.

• Cathedrals • Churches • Towers • Sports Centres

• High Rise Office Blocks • High Rise Residential Blocks • Schools • Hospitals

T: 01722 322750 E: mail@wallbridge.co.uk W: www.wallbridge.co.uk Unit 7, Centre One, Lysander Way, Old Sarum, Salisbury SP4 6BU

Direct Strike Ltd

Lightning Protection and Earthing Solutions • Lightning Protection • Inspection & Maintenance • BSEN 62305:2011 • Consultancy & Design Services • Supply & Installation • Earthing Systems • Height Safety & Fall Arrest Systems • Surge Protection

Head Office: 01461 337951 Rep of Ireland: +353 45 913 129

E: enquiries@directstrike.co.uk W: www.directstrike.co.uk 18 Canberra Road, Gretna, Dumfriesshire, Scotland DG16 5DP

South West Lightning Protection T: 07807 334441 E: south@lightningconductor.org W: www.lightningconductor.org

Airport Business Centre, 10 Thornbury Road, Estover, Plymouth PL6 7PP

LIGHTNING PROTECTION

Wiltshire Steeplejacks

and Lightning Conductor Engineers Trading for over 40 years, we specialise in: • Lightning protection systems • BS EN 62305 & BS 6651 • Earthing and resistivity testing • High maintenance work • Bird control • All rope access work • Full architectural surveys & cover meter surveys T: 01225 761330 M: 07973 397770 E: wiltssteeplejack@aol.com W: www.wiltshiresteeplejacks.co.uk The Coach House, 5 Court Street, Trowbridge, Wiltshire BA14 8BR

Harrison Lightning Protection & Earthing Ltd T: 01325 464464 E: contact@harrisonlp.co.uk W: www.harrisonlp.co.uk

2 Lakeland Estate, Faverdale North, Darlington, County Durham DL3 0PX

LIME & LIME PLASTERERS

Lightning Strike Ltd Lightning Protection and Earthing Specialist for Churches and Historic Properties • Lightning Conductor Testing • Earthing Systems • Earthing System Testing • Surge Protection • Safe Strike ESE Systems • Soil Resistivity Testing

T: 01158 752686 M: 07581 266493 E: info@lightningstrikeltd.co.uk W: www.lightningstrikeltd.co.uk 11 Bedford Grove, Bulwell, Nottingham NG6 9DE

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METALWORK

LIVE STREAMING ORGANS

RAINWATER SYSTEMS

ROOFING

MEMORIALS & MONUMENTS

Black Dog Roofing T: 01249 321969 M: 07808 840491 E: blackdogroofing1@outlook.com W: www.blackdogroofing.co.uk Specialists in: • Conservation Roofing • Lead Sheeting Association Standard • Leadwork including Welding • Slating, Tiling and Stone Tiling Landsdowne Close, Calne, Wiltshire SN11 9DR

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• EPDM Flat Roofs • Green Roofs • Installation of Cast • Guttering

SOUND, AUDIO VISUAL & LOOP SYSTEMS

FTMRC

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ISCE

STAINED GLASS

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STONE & STONE SUPPLY

SURVEYING

TRAINING

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