Development Trust
The St Mary’s Priory Church Development Trust was founded in 1999 and has been responsible for the conversion and enhancement of the ancient Tithe Barn at St Mary’s, which is to open in 2008 as a facility for visitors and an educational resource for the community.
The Trust’s responsibilities towards the Church extend to the very many project initiatives, ranging from the restoration of the historic pipe organ, to the completion of the Priory Centre, providing much-required meeting space, ancillary facilities and a resource library. In addition, the Trust’s remit extends to making educational provision, developing heritage programmes for children and young people, and in providing skill opportunities in a range of curriculum areas.
The Trust seeks to uphold the underlying principles of what is a Benedictine foundation dating back to the 11th century. Education and hospitality lie at the heart of the Trust’s considerations, and it is hoped to extend its work and enterprise more widely into the community in the coming years.
The Trust’s Patron is HRH The Prince of Wales, who has taken a very special interest in all its project work.
The Organ
The movement of the floor of the Lewis Chapel necessitated the urgent dismantling and removal of the 17th Century organ, which is a fine instrument of historic interest and formerly resided in Bristol. Much work has to be done to restore the organ, which will then be re-sited in the South Transcept.
A specially constructed gallery casing will maximise both the appearance and quality of the sound of the organ.
It is anticipated that some grants will be available towards the refurbishment and re-siting costs of approximately £500,000.