On Tuesday, 28th February 2023 a ceremony took place at the church (which is just across the road from Exel’s Bothe Hall offices) to celebrate the restoration of the Coat of Arms.
This marked the culmination of a long, and at times difficult process, to restore this magnificent work of art. The picture, which measures approximately 10 foot by 11 foot, was given to the church in 1761, but had been forgotten and stored away from public view for over two hundred and twenty years. It was rediscovered in the Church Bell Tower but was in a very poor state of repair and badly effected by woodworm.
John Sewall, the Major of Erewash, began a fund-raising project to allow for the restoration work to be carried out. It was at this point that Exel became involved with the project and agreed to fully fund the work.
Lincoln Conservation, part of Lincoln University, were appointed to carry out the specialist work on the picture, with work beginning in 2022, and finally being unveiled to the public yesterday.
Rue Dilhe, Exel’s MD, said “Exel are very proud to have sponsored the complete restoration of the George III Royal Coat of Arms and to be supporting the local church and community. We are very pleased that this important part of our local heritage can now be seen and appreciated for many years to come.”
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-derbyshire-64804075
Before Restoration After Restoration
