Rededication of St Michael’s, Mytholmroyd
08 February 2019
On Boxing Day 2015 Cumbria suffered one of its worst floods on record.
Thousands of people were displaced and hundreds of buildings, including 30 churches, were devastated following a series of severe storms which hit the country during December.
Among them was the Grade II listed St Michael’s, Mytholmroyd. The entire ground floor, including tiles, pews and historic organ, were extensively damaged along with the church hall and adjacent bowling club. It was a major blow to the church and the local community, with many groups using the church and its hall.
Two year restoration
Repairing the damage was a major and complex undertaking due to the age and structure of the building and the types of construction materials used. Ecclesiastical worked closely to support the church, sharing its specialist expertise of historic buildings. This was particularly important during the initial stages of drying and decontamination as water and silt had penetrated several layers of flooring.
The restoration of the church took almost two years to complete, including internal renovations and rebuilding the church organ.
It was rededicated at a special service led by the Archbishop of York, John Sentamu, on 5 November 2017. “Having seen the terrible destruction which the Boxing Day floods caused to St Michael’s church, Mytholmroyd, I didn’t know what to expect when I went to rededicate the church on 5 November this year."
I was bowled over by what I saw – a magnificent restoration of the church, made possible by Ecclesiastical’s specialist expertise and deep understanding of churches and the communities they serve and working in a sensitive partnership with the clergy and congregation of St Michael’s church. A truly fantabulous result.
John Sentamu Archbishop of York
“It was such a long haul to get to the day when we can return to worship in our church building. Ecclesiastical Insurance were amazing, going above and beyond what might have been hoped for. On behalf of everyone who uses and loves our buildings, thank you.”
Eric Alston Church Warden at St Michael’s, Mytholmroyd.
