St John's Methodist Chapel. 2000AD

Extensive planning of improvements to the church began in 2000 and were completed in 2002. Much of the character of the building has been retained, whilst making it more suited to 21st century needs. The interior shown here is little altered since the beginning of the 20th Century, though these photographs were taken as work was about to begin - hence the absence of carpets.

Notice how every seat in the building has a direct line of sight to the pulpit, emphasizing the importance of preaching in the Methodist tradition. Notice too the steps and its height. Some preachers were reluctant to use it because of the height and older ones had difficulty mounting the steps. The current pulpit is cut down from this one and can be moved around the communion area.

The box pews are typical of their age - and very useful for keeping young children confined within the church during services. Nowadays this is less of an issue and a children's corner with toys etc has been created within the building. The doors still remain, but in a different position. The brass hinges are an interesting feature. Nowadays these would have to be specially made should they ever have to be replaced.

View from the gallery. The pipe organ is still routinely played twice a month.	View from opposite side of gallery.
From the pulpit looking to the back of the church	The view you saw when you entered the church.
View of communion area.	A View diagonally across the church.
Detailed view of the pulpit.	These doors were succesfully rehung at the new car park entrance.