Victorian rose window saved for future generations

Members of the Parochial Church Council (PCC) of St. Cyr's church in Stinchombe were horrified to learn that the beautiful 19th century rose window in the Grade II* listed church was in danger of shattering.

A group of people from the village including the Friends of St Cyr's swung into action to raise the funds for the repair as quickly as possible.

In under two years, nearly £16,000 has been raised by fundraising events in the village and from grants donated by charitable organisations.

The fundraising activities included a recital of music from the First World War by Dame Ann Murray and Robin Leggate last September. This coincided with an art exhibition by local artists whose work was displayed in the barn at Church Farm. Together with a coffee morning, these events raised around £5,000.

Grants were also received from the Warneford Trust for £430.50, the Gloucestershire Historic Churches trust for £3,000 and The Gloucestershire Environmental Trust for £8,000.

St Cyr's church was restored in 1855 with much of the stained glass installed at this time. The rose window, made by James Powell & Sons was totally removed and taken to Graham Dowding's workshop in Nailsworth for repairs. Graham is glazing conservator at Gloucester Cathedral.

The clear glass window adjacent to the pulpit was also removed. Local legend has it that it was left clear so that the priest could see who was not attending church. Several other windows depicting saints and biblical scenes suffering lesser damage have been repaired in situ.

Churchwarden, Cherry Brown said: "Our thanks go to the three trusts and all those who gave us such tremendous support and help to fund the restoration of the stunning window.

"As the sun moves round the building, the light passing through the stained glass colours the interior which enhances a very beautiful building."

The Gloucestershire Environmental Trust provides grants from funds generated by the Landfill Communities Fund for the benefit of Gloucestershire, its people and its environment.