St Michael's Church in Beccles improves its facilities

On Saturday, October 14 St Michael’s Church, in Beccles, is celebrating what has been achieved in the last five years to conserve the grade I listed building and improve its facilities.

It will also be an opportunity to thank the organisations and individuals who have contributed to the work.

Following specialist conservation of the exterior of the notable South Porch, the inside of the porch has now received similar attention.

READ MORE: Work begins to rethatch 15th century church roof after £80,000 raised

Rear of nave, including servery at St Michael's Church in Beccles (Image: Charlotte James Photography)Repair work begins on the South Porch of St Michael's church, Beccles pictured in 2017 (Image: Nick Butcher)

The tiny porch of the Priest’s Door and rare exterior pulpit above it have also been conserved.

Inside the building, a large open space at the rear of the nave has been created and a servery and accessible toilets installed.

The dais has been extended across the front of the nave and ramps incorporated. A new lectern has been made to commemorate the reign of Queen Elizabeth II.

Audio-visual facilities have been improved too. with the building said to be now much more useable for both church and community purposes.

At the event, which starts from 7pm, local historian Barry Darch will give a wide-ranging and illustrated talk on ‘1000 Years of St Michael’s’.

Tickets can be bought from Beccles Books, or John Bailey on 07774 749201.

READ MORE: BBC's Martha Kearney makes appeal to restore 12th century churches roof

The improved facilities at St Michael's Church in Beccles (Image: Charlotte James Photography)Repair work to the South Porch began in 2017, pictured in the same year (Image: Nick Butcher)

They cost £15 to include a glass of wine (or soft drink) and nibbles on arrival, cheeseboard and tea/coffee.

St Michael's Church has been at the centre of the life of the town since its foundation in 1369 

The tower contains a peel of 10 bells that are rung each week. During the summer the tower is open and visitors can climb the stairs and enjoy the view from the top. 

Snow Scene: A view along the river Waveney to St Michael's Church, Beccles. (Image: Nick Butcher)St Michael's Church and tower in Beccles in the snow. (Image: Nick Butcher)St Michael's Church towers over the River Waveney at Beccles. (Image: Denise Bradley)