Stretton Church

Stretton Church, Rutland - St Nicholas

For more than 900 years people have met in our ancient building: to sing, pray, learn and encourage one another in our faith. Over the centuries many changes have been made to our Grade 2 listed building, which dates from the 11th century.  Walls have been rebuilt, the roof replaced, a door blocked up.  Most of the woodwork is nineteenth century.  You can read more of the history of our church at http://www.british-history.ac.uk/vch/rutland/vol2/pp145-151. St Nicholas is reputed to be the oldest church in Rutland with history dating back to 11th century.

We were recently awarded a £100,000 grant from FCC Community Fund, and also £105,000 mostly from other grant giving bodies, including £35,000 from Mick George Ltd and The National Lottery. These have enabled it to be refurbished and upgraded to provide a combined church and community hub. 

The Victorian nave pews have been removed but Elizabethan pews remain in the transepts. This has created a large space which can still be used for worship, but is also able to be used for many other events and functions. A new wooden floor, much need loo (with baby changing facilities) and servery has been installed, and the whole space is wheelchair-friendly. The organ has been refurbished and relocated, as has the font, creating an intimate area for christenings. We now have a modern and flexible heating system and stackable seating.

Whilst St Nicholas will remain primarily a place of worship, the much improved and flexible layout has given the village of Stretton a place to hold concerts and show films, host clubs, children's parties and many other activities. The church has also become a centre for the heritage of the local area.

 

Churchwarden:  Jonathan Pattison.  email: jonathan@hal5000.co.uk


Stretton Village Websitehttps://strettonrutland.co.uk/