A FUNDRAISER has been launched to raise money to preserve a historic piece of stained-glass with national significance.

St Andrew’s Church in Stratton is adorned with many fine stained-glass windows, welcoming visitors with their vivid colour and impressive depictions.

One window in particular has a special significance, not only locally but also nationally. This East Window, located behind the High Altar, is one of only ten windows in the whole of the Diocese of Cornwall, and these in only six churches, that were designed and manufactured by the firm of William Morris and inserted in 1874.

The figures of the four Evangelists were designed by the artist Edward Burne-Jones and are similar to those commissioned by Jesus College in Cambridge in 1872. The four emblems below the Evangelists were designed by the architect Phillip Webb.

In 2011 the community raised funds to stabilise the metal retaining bars which was done by the firm of Holywell Glass. However, the company reported then that the paintwork was deteriorating and, in some places, lost. A new report in 2023 advised conservation work at an estimated cost of £47,850 plus VAT.

The church is now launching a fundraising appeal with an event in church at 6.30 pm on Thursday, November 7.

Mr Stephen Clare of Holywell Glass Ltd, the Stained Glass specialists in Wells, Somerset, who will be undertaking this work, will be giving a talk about his art and how his team will go about restoring this window in Stratton.

The event will offer wine and nibbles and is open to all.