This summer St Thomas à Becket Church has received a National Lottery grant of up to £100,000 for an exciting heritage project, restoring the roof of our Grade 1 listed Church in Pagham. Made possible by money raised by National Lottery players, the project will enable the heritage of the building and all contained within it to be preserved for future generations.
We plan to start the work in Spring 2019 and the church will remain open and accessible throughout the project.
Supported through the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF), the project will enable local people to learn more about their history through new guidebooks, leaflets and website content. There will also be an exhibition of the Restoration Project for the benefit of local schools, Uniformed Groups, local history societies and others.
St Thomas à Becket Church has been in Pagham for over 800 years, thereby preserving many memories and artefacts for its community.
Commenting on the award, Michael Wake project co-ordinator, said: “We are delighted to receive this support and are really grateful to, and thankful for, all those who play the National Lottery which makes these awards possible. We are confident that with this support we will be able to complete our project so that we can continue to serve our parish and community, allowing all to enjoy their heritage.”
Michelle Roffe, Head of HLF South East said: “We are delighted to support Pagham PCC to preserve and share the heritage of this important church. Thanks to National Lottery players, this vital local building will be saved and brought to life for current and future generations”.
Notes to editors
About St Thomas à Becket Church
St Thomas à Becket Church is the Church of England Parish Church of Pagham. As it is 800 years old it contains much of architectural and artistic interest, while being widely available for community use for worship, prayer, christenings, weddings, funerals, exhibitions, concerts, school trips and more.
About the Heritage Lottery Fund
Thanks to National Lottery players, we invest money to help people across the UK explore, enjoy and protect the heritage they care about – from the archaeology under our feet to the historic parks and buildings we love, from precious memories and collections to rare wildlife. www.hlf.org.uk. Follow us on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram and use #National Lottery and #HLFsupported.
Further information
For further information, images and interviews please contact Mike Wake, Churchwarden, on (01243) 264254 and mikewake@talktalk.net