Boxted: Changes planned at parish church (From Essex County Standard)

Boxted: Changes planned at parish church

9:00am Saturday 4th July 2009

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A church is striving to raise £70,000 so its parishioners can spend a penny.

St Peters in Boxted has no lavatory facilities - so visitors have to cross their legs or pop to a nearby house if they are caught short.

As a result, the parochial church council has had plans drawn up to extend the north side of the building to provide a toilet – for the first time in its 1,000-year history.

Rev Tim Bull explained that the extension would also include a kitchen servery, while the existing tower area would be renovated to be used by the Sunday school.

At the moment, children's lessons are held in a neighbouring house due to a lack of space.

Meanwhile, a mezzanine floor within the tower would make space for a vestry, while the church would be given disabled access to the entrance.

Architects have estimated that the whole project will cost around £90,000 in total.

“We have already raised about £20,000 through events like open gardens and a concert,” said Mr Bull.

“Now we're looking at grants for the rest of the money, as well as holding other fundraisers.”

He added: “We've already done a lot to the church in the six years that I've been here – we replaced the floor and put in a sound system and heating, as well as putting up new noticeboards.

“There's just the last little bit to do, although we know it will take some time to get the money together.”

Mr Bull explained that the changes will make church life much more comfortable for the parishioners.

“Some people don't stay for tea or coffee after the services because they know we haven't got a loo,” he said.

“And one of the first things people ask if they're visiting for a wedding or a funeral is whether we've got any facilities – but we have to tell them we haven't had a toilet for 1,000 years!

“The new disabled ramp will also make a big difference.

“The access at the moment is atrocious – it's impossible to get a wheelchair in.”

If you would like to help with the fundraising, contact appeal secretary Stephen Whybrow on 01206 272773 or stephen.whybrow@msn.com

Alternatively, write to St Peter's Church Boxted Community Access Appeal, Boxted CO4 5ST.

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