20th Century

In 1971 it was discovered that the church tower was unsafe - it had not been "keyed in" to the main building and was parting from it. The cost of strengthening and making the structure safe was estimated at £15,000, a staggering sum in 1971 - and so the tower had to be demolished.

When re-decoration was undertaken in 1985, extensive woodworm was found in the gallery

seats and floor, as well as in the nave beams. At this time, re-ordering had been discussed,

resulting - in addition to the remedial work - pews being removed from the back to create a

Narthex - the tower steps were removed to enlarge the porch, toilets provided, and the church

repaired, repainted, re-ordered and re-floored. The church was re-opened for worship in March

1986.

In 1992 a mezzanine floor was constructed, giving two meeting rooms and the Narthex was also screened to provide a third room when needed.

This completed Phase 1 of our Development Project. Late in 1995, the refurbishment of the vestries was started and completed in the summer of 1996, providing an office in the Vicar's Vestry and a comfortable lounge/meeting room in the choir vestry.

A New Hall

Phase 2 of the Development Project at St. John's was completed and opened by the Bishop

of Bradford in July 1999. This exciting development provides a durable and easy to maintain

building - a useful and attractive building - which will enable us to extend our work  within

the local community. Included in the hall extension is a large meeting room, new toilets,

kitchen, and adequate storage space. Upstairs there is a Youth Loft complete with its own

kitchenette and more toilets. St.John's will now be able to pursue its firm Biblical

understanding of the nature of a church - "The Body of Christ, called to mission, witness

and service in Christ's name in His world" - into the 21st century.

Modern and Practical

During January 2003 work started on the reordering of the Chancel at St. John's. This £30,000 project saw the removal of the choir pews, pulpit and lectern, the levelling of the floor throughout and the provision of new heating and lighting.

The reordered Chancel will provide a much more practical space for use in Services and mid week activities.

As part of the project access for disabled or less able bodied people has been provided. The chancel area is raised above the main floor of the church by two steps and this provision will enable this area to be all inclusive.

The Pulpit and Lectern have been replaced with modern furniture with the original pulpit front and pew ends being incorporated into the new design of the Chancel.

                                                   Before and after views of the Chancel