Whatley quarry contributes to restoration of Chantry’s Church of the Holy Trinity

Local residents in Chantry are celebrating a new chapter for the village’s historic Holy Trinity Church, made possible in part by a significant donation from our Whatley quarry.

The project to transform the church into a community social space was completed earlier this year and the building can now be used in a multitude of ways, including for concerts and meetings, as well as a quiet space for contemplation.

Following a request from local charity, Friends of Chantry, our Whatley quarry contributed towards lighting upgrades and seating as well as sponsoring its exhibition of internationally renowned photographer, Tim Mercer, running until 22nd November.

Vincent Pitt, Operations Manager at Whatley quarry, said: “We were delighted to support this important community project and help preserve such a historic building. It was a great opportunity to support the creation of a vibrant community hub.”

The Church of the Holy Trinity, like many rural churches, was in a poor state of repair and, prior to restoration, there were issues with the lighting and heating. Friends of Chantry, a secular committee under the Chantry Parish Council, received support from the Church of England to take on the church building as a secular community space.

The lighting donation funded Illuma spotlights and a Rako lighting control system, with a variety of settings to suit a range of events.

Andrew Bramston, Chair of Chantry parish council, said: “We are incredibly grateful to Heidelberg Materials’ Whatley quarry for its generous donation. The church is now a functional, welcoming space for our community to enjoy and spend time together.”

Since its refurbishment, the church has already staged a series of popular events. In addition to the current photography exhibition, it has also hosted local author Michael Tasker Phillips talking about his new book ‘Grace’.