A church in Bedford town centre has been awarded a grant of over £200,000 from the National Lottery Heritage Fund to support a project to repair its historic clock tower and bells.
St Paul’s Church in the heart of Bedford has been awarded £209,000 towards its Tower Clock and Bells project.
The appeal, which launched in 2021, aims to raise £300,000.
Read: £300k appeal launched to restore St Paul’s tower, clock and bells
The project focuses on the repair and conservation of St Paul’s historic tower, the clock, originally installed in 1811, and the 12 bells, arguably some of the finest in England.
The conservation work would ensure they can continue to serve the church and wider Bedford community for generations to come, while also preserving an important part of the town’s heritage.
The Revd Anthony Davis of St Paul’s Bedford said the award was hugely encouraging.
“We are absolutely delighted,” he said.
“This gives us greater confidence to go ahead, knowing funding from the Heritage Fund is in place, and is also a huge boost in morale for those who have been working very hard on this project for a number of years.”
The Bishop of Bedford, Rt Rev Richard Atkinson, welcomed the news, saying, “This is indeed very good news. Congratulations to all concerned.”
St Paul’s Church has a longstanding role at the heart of Bedford’s civic and community life, and the successful award underlines the value of its heritage as well as the commitment of those working to care for it.
You can make a donation to this project or sponsor the refurbishment of a bell or clock face by visiting the fundraising website here.
Alternatively, you can email Ann Collett-White, Appeal Secretary at clockandbells@stpaulschurchbedford.org.uk.
You can also send a cheque to The Treasurer, St Paul’s church, Bedford MK40 1SQ, tel 01234 340163.
