ST Mary the Virgin Church in Little Thurrock can now be used for more community activities than ever, thanks to a grant of over £54,000 from the Veolia North Thames Trust (VNTT).
The newly refurbished church will open its doors this weekend to celebrate the completion of the works – which will mean that mums with their babies can drop in for a chat, music from more and more concerts will ring out, sessions such as debt counselling can be held.
Doug Benjafield – Chairman of VNTT said “The trust is always happy to support projects that bring older buildings to life – extending the range of community activities that can take place there”.
The works started in January and included modifying the west end of the nave to provide a tea point servery, accessible toilet, new lighting and a new heating system.
The pews were also removed and replaced with upholstered wooden framed chairs, providing a more flexible framework within the church so that it can be used by different community groups in the most appropriate way. In addition, conservation works were carried out on the Sedilla which dates back to the 1380s and the tower.
Reverend Christine Williams said “We are absolutely delighted with the works that have been carried out, which will make a world of difference to our church users and the local community. We would like to express our thanks to VNTT for their generous grant without which the works would not have been possible”.
