Between January and March 2025 a new lighting system was installed at All Saints, replacing the old chandelier lights. The new system was designed by Michael Barham from illuminous Design and the work was carried out by T. James of Kettering. The electrician in charge on site was Tom Wright and the whole project was managed by Michael Latham on behalf of the PCC. As a great deal of scaffolding was required, this involved the closure of the church for ten weeks whilst the work was underway, This web page contains a range of photographs that chronicle the project from start to end – with thanks to Liz Needham, Ann Blackett, Tom Wright, Richard Adams and Chris Baker. Just click on the photos for larger versions.
Preparing the church
The last services to be held in All Saints before the project were on Sunday 29th December 2024. In the week that followed, the church was prepared for the project, by moving everything that could be moved into safe storage, stacking movable furniture, and covering pews, organ etc with protective plastic. The number of (very) old hymn books revealed in this process was quite staggering!
Installation
Scaffolding was installed in church in the weeks beginning January 6th and 13th, and all but the west end of the church was closed off, except for those carrying out the work. The new lights were installed throughout January and February, some of the damage done to the mouldings on the roof line by the old lights was repaired, and the clerestory windows were cleaned. The lights were turned on for the first time on February 26th.
Plasterwork repairs
Whilst the scaffolding was in place, the opportunity was taken to replace flaking plaster on the wall of the north clerestory. The work was carried out by Neale and Co. in the week beginning February 17th.
The School Chapel
During the work, which extended from the church seasons of Epiphany into Lent, the congregation of All Saints worshipped in the Chapel of Oakham School. The School’s hospitality is gratefully acknowledged.
Detailed views
The scaffolding also gave the opportunity to take photographs of some of the decorative details high up in the chancel and nave.
Cleaning the church
When the protective plastic sheeting was removed on March 6th , everywhere was found to be very dusty and extensive cleaning was required the following week, which was masterminded by Beryl Kirkland. Final adjustments were made to the lights whilst cleaning was underway and in the days that followed.
Back in All Saints
The first service back i nAll Saints was on Sunday 16th March. This coincided with a visit by the Bishop of Lichfield, Dr Michael Ipgrave, who was a curate at Oakham in the early 1980. Presentations were made to Michael Latham and Beryl Kirtland. The Lord Lieutenant, Dr Sarah Furness, was in attendance.
Before and after
Photographs from the same position, at the same time of day, from 2023 and 2025
