Faith Features

Our churches are full of relics from previous ages of fine craftsmanship.

But when heritage doesn't quite go hand-in-hand with the demands of the 21st century, the antiquities might still be of use.

As Sidmouth Parish Church undergoes a refit, the Victorian pews are being replaced.

The church has been re-built before.

It's hoped the antiques can be sold to raise funds for the refurbishment.

"If anyone is interested in having a church pew from the 1850s, they're going for about £30," said the Reverend Prebendary David James.

As Rector at Sidmouth, David is overseeing a complete face-lift in the church.

It's not the first time a renovation has been called for during the church's history, which dates back to the 12th century.

Now though, planners are much more mindful of protecting what they have than some of their predecessors were.

"The Victorians were much more radical than we're going to be," explained David. "They pulled down the medieval church and built a new one."

How the church will look.

Around £150,000 is still needed, and the old furniture might be the source of some of it.

"Some of the pews are very long but the older ones are shorter.

"They've got numbers on the end because they were rented when they were first put in, and people had their own numbered pew."

The Rector confessed it's not easy to find potential customers.

"Churches very often have pews of their own that they're trying to get rid of.

"There are some people locally who are interested in having a piece of the church history."

There's great excitement among the congregation about what the new interior of the church will look like.

The plans include a new stone floor, a better heating system and improved lighting.

The dark interior is to be made lighter.

It will also be a more versatile venue, with brand new seating that can be moved for musical performances to take place.

"It'll also be a lot more comfortable," hoped David.

"It's a town church and it's open every day, so we hope it will be nice and welcoming."

The refurbishment should be complete in time for the festival dedicated to St Nicholas, one of the church's saints, in December 2009.