St Mary’s Church, Finedon celebrates completion of major church renewal project

The congregation and community of St Mary’s gathered in celebration this September as the church officially opened its newly completed renewal project, marking an exciting new chapter in the life of the historic building. 

Earlier this year, St Mary’s announced that, following a grant of £97,992 from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, alongside generous support from other organisations and individual donors, work could begin on an ambitious programme of improvements. The project has transformed the church with the addition of a servery and kitchen, new toilet facilities, improved wheelchair access via a ramp, and the creation of a flexible space for educational, musical and community events. 

The official opening took place on Saturday 12 September and coincided with the church’s annual three-day Flower Festival, which welcomed visitors from across the region. A special highlight of the day was the presence of the Revd Richard Coles, who served as Vicar of St Mary’s from 2011 to 2022 and who formally opened the new facilities by cutting the ribbon. 

Around 130 people attended the celebration, including the Revd Louise Bishop, Rural Dean, Michael Moore of the Northamptonshire Historic Churches Trust, and Edward Lamb, representing the John Warren Foundation, one of the project’s supporters. 

The improvements will help ensure that St Mary’s continues to serve both worshippers and the wider community for generations to come. By combining enhanced accessibility and modern facilities with the preservation of its historic character, the church is now better equipped to host a wide range of events and activities alongside its ongoing ministry. 

Members of the PCC expressed their gratitude to everyone involved in bringing the vision to completion, recognising the dedication, hard work and commitment shown throughout the project. First conceived during Revd Richard Coles’ ministry, the renewal project has now reached a successful conclusion, helping to secure St Mary’s future as a welcoming, inclusive and vibrant place of worship, community and heritage.