New chapter begins for historic Cookham church undergoing £800,000 renovation

Big changes are happening at an historic church in Cookham where an £800,000 ‘long-awaited’ renovation is underway.

Holy Trinity Church, which dates back to the early 11th century, is set to be kitted out with new underfloor heating, a new limestone floor, and new seating.

It is hoped the changes will make the church a warmer place for worship and also improve its versatility as venue for more community use.

Most of the renovation cost has been raised but the church is still fundraising for the final £100,000.

Vicar Father Stephen Mills said: "This is an incredibly exciting time for Holy Trinity Church and the entire Cookham community.

“These long-awaited improvements will transform our church into a warm, accessible, and welcoming space for everyone.

“We look forward to seeing it come alive, not just for worship, but for concerts, gatherings, and community events that bring people together.

“We are deeply thankful for the wonderful support we have received so far, and while there is still some way to go, every further contribution will be warmly welcomed."

As well as underfloor heating being fitted, Holy Trinity will have more radiators added.

Old wooden flooring will be replaced and a limestone floor fitted to match the church’s east end.

Pews are also being removed and new chairs installed to make the more flexible seating arrangement.

Part of the aim of the changes is to make Holy Trinity Church a more valuable community asset and encourage more events to be held there.

Renovations are expected to be completed by March 2025.

The church will be closed with some services taking place in a nearby school while work is ongoing.

From this weekend, Sunday morning services will be held in the hall at Holy Trinity CE Primary School, and evening services will be held at St John the Baptist Church in Cookham Dean.

Holy Trinity school headteacher Anna Smith, added: “We are delighted to be able to support the church in this exciting project which will in time benefit the wider Cookham community.

“In the coming weeks we shall look forward to welcoming Father Stephen, his team and the congregation to our school in a venture which is sure to cement our already close links with the church and give us an opportunity, we hope, to play a fuller part in Sunday services.”

For more information contact church warden Mark Stockdale at nmarkstockdale@hotmail.com.

You can view and donate to the church’s fundraiser through its website at tinyurl.com/bdhb5xsn.