Spring is fast approaching and we have an exciting programme of events coming up! Historic Norfolk’s Annual Lecture begins our season on Friday 19th April at 7.30pm.
Richard Halsey MBE RSA will explore the history of the chapel as further revealed during the recent major repairs. All is not as we thought! Comprehensive scaffolding has given direct access to parts of the structure not normally accessible, both inside and out, and along with areas of paint and plaster removal has enabled a detailed analysis of the building to take place.
This investigation has revealed exciting new information about the building’s history, as Richard will explain. In addition, Patricia Forero-Senior ARB RIBA AABC, Project Architect, will explain how the chapel is being adapted to meet the demands of net-zero, or carbon reduction.
We are proud that Becket’s Chapel is one of eight trail-blazing projects across the country where Historic England is supporting organisations to make their heritage assets as carbon neutral as possible. These projects will then form a series of Historic England case studies, giving Becket’s Chapel a leading profile in the realm of historic buildings adaption required to meet the demands of climate change.
Tickets for the lecture will be available through our website www.becketschapel.org.uk.
Another highlight of the coming weeks will be the installation of three large chandeliers in the main hall. Made in France by artisan glass specialists, these will hang from alternate central rafters where there is evidence of previous large light fittings. In addition to providing additional lighting, the chandeliers also contain infrared heaters which will enable us to efficiently and effectively heat the chapel year-round, keeping all users and visitors to the Chapel cosy and warm!
Featuring special decorative motifs that reflect the chapel’s architecture and history, including Kett’s Rebellion, St Thomas Becket and Wymondham Old Grammar School, the chandeliers will be a modern addition that further enhances the building both decoratively and practically.
Historic Norfolk has recently been awarded a significant sum towards the costs of the chandeliers from South Norfolk Council’s Pride in Place grant scheme which is part of UK Shared Prosperity Funding (UKSPF) programme. Our trustees very much appreciate this support and look forward to continuing a constructive dialogue with South Norfolk Council as the next phase of the project moves forward.
Music-lovers will be delighted to hear that The Cavick Quartet is returning by popular demand on Saturday 27th April for its second concert since the renovation. The concert begins at 7.30pm and features a programme of works by Beethoven, Elgar and Haydn. The last concert was a sell-out, so do not delay in booking your tickets through our website www.becketschapel.org.uk.
In early May, Historic Norfolk welcomes the return to Becket’s Chapel of Wymondham Arts exhibitions. This year there is an extended programme through to mid-November, reflecting a significant increase in demand for our wonderful venue.
If you live in or near Wymondham and would like to support Historic Norfolk’s project at Becket’s chapel as a volunteer, please contact us at hello@becketschapel.org.uk.
