The scaffolding and tarpaulin which has encased the spire at Alderley Edge Methodist Church for the last six months has started to be removed.
Work commenced on the Methodist Church spire and tower back in November last year. Both had become victims of serious corrosion and needed to be removed, restored and rebuilt. At the same time the clock, which was made in 1850 and is one of only three ever to be made entirely of cast iron, was removed to be restored.
Jean Walker said "As the spire has gradually been exposed, we have been able to see the restoration work that has gone on behind the screens. It is now clear to see where stones have been replaced and made good, to preserve our 150 year-old spire for future generations.
"In the near future, the clock faces, which were sent to Cumbria for repair, will be restored, and we look forward to the time, when the clock chimes out over the village once again."
Judy Povey, Church Secretary, added "The reveal is not going all the way at present, there is more work to be done further down the spire and the work still has about six weeks to go, perhaps into early July."
Alderley Edge Methodist Church have continued with their fundraising efforts during 2011 which has been both enjoyable and productive for them. They would like to extend their thanks to; Opus 5, whose Spring Concert raised a magnificent £1700, Sir Bobby Charlton, who donated a signed Pele Shirt which raised £425 and Waitrose, who included them in their monthly charity scheme which raised £273 for the Spire Fund in March.
Jean said "To date, over two years, we have raised £37,500 by our own efforts, to supplement grants from English Heritage, National Churches Trust and Historic Churches of Cheshire. We will need to raise about half as much again to reach our target of £275,000."
On Wednesday July 6th the Church are delighted that students from the Conservatoire of Music in Tours, France and students from The Ryley's School will perform in a lunchtime concert at Alderley Edge Methodist Church.
The French students are on a return visit, following The Ryley's successful exchange to France last year. Admission will be by programme, which costs £3.50, and light lunches will be served from 12 noon.
Jean added "The stones which had to be replaced are now available for purchase. Large and small, we have a range of beautiful sandstone, which could be made into an attractive garden feature."
Interested parties should email the church office or visit the Alderley Edge Methodist Church website. Alternatively for further information you can call 01625 586713 or 01625 584410 out of office hours.
