HISTORIC CHURCH CAN LOOK FORWARD TO A NEW ERA THANKS TO OVERWHELMING SUPPORT

A MUCH-LOVED historic community church is on the brink of receiving a new lease of life.

Fears that St Barnabas Church may have to close its doors for good have now been allayed much to the relief of the church wardens and congregation.

The church, in Sea Road, is a magnificent structure, which is one of the main focal points of Bexhill and now, at long last, its future has been secured thanks to much-needed support from the National Churches Trust.

Churchwarden Angela Wyle said “Sadly, St Barnabas is in need of much repair and updating and has been placed on the A list of heritage at risk.

“To support our plans to transition St Barnabas Church into a community hub, the Trust has granted £9,000 towards paying for an architect to give a design for the future.

“I would like to express my grateful thanks to the Trust for their support of us.” viable future.

St Barnabas has a rich history due to the building itself and its presence in the local community.

The Grade 2 listed building, which is the second biggest in Bexhill, was designed by distinguished Victorian architect Sir Arthur Blomfield. And is held in considerable affection by both the town and local community.

A feasibility study was taken by Paul Whitnall of Ten Spires CiC who said: “St Barnabas is a treasure to celebrate.

“Finding the best way forward takes bravery, thought and specialist help but the National Churches Trust grant has enabled St Barnabas to needs.

Recognising the need for children’s education, he opened the first primary school; the building which now houses Bexhill library.

St Barnabas’ outreach work continues today by accommodating the Homelessness Unity Group, known as HUG, and other support work such as bereavement and support groups and other

However, the primary purpose of St Barnabas is worship and the pastoral care of the community. The Parochial Church Council trustees have also expressed their delight at having the backing of Dr Edward Dowler, Archdeacon of Hastings, who has offered practical advice and spiritual support.

He said: “I am delighted to be able to support the transition project at St Barnabas Church.

“Since it was built in 1891, the church has stood as a beacon of the Christian faith in its town

“We hope that the project will continue to enable it to do so for many more years, whilst also opening up this spacious and sumptuous historic building and the surrounding land for a range of wider community uses”.

Deputy Church warden Russell Meredith added: “This exciting news will help us prepare for the

“St Barnabas is a splendid building with a vast amount of space that needs to be adapted so that more in the community can make use of it.

“We are looking for new ideas and volunteers to help expand our outreach and would be pleased to hear from anyone interested.”

St Barnabas aims to be a fully-committed community church and meeting point for everyone in the town.