A colourful new tissue paper ‘Angel Window’ created by local schoolchildren and community volunteers is now on display at St Laurence Church in Stroud.
The artwork highlights plans to restore the historic building and protect it for the future.
The temporary paper window was designed by local artist and historian Peter Westley, who created the framework for the project. Year 6 pupils from Stroud Valley Community Primary School then helped bring it to life using coloured tissue paper to recreate the effect of stained glass.
The installation forms part of the development phase of the St Laurence Restored project. The project has received initial funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund to develop plans for a major heritage restoration programme. The aim is to secure around £2 million for a delivery phase in 2027–28.
The church is currently on the Buildings at Risk register due to structural problems, including subsidence. These issues led to the removal of the historic Angel Window. The original stained glass is now awaiting specialist conservation before it can be repaired and reinstated.
During a recent workshop at the church, Emerald Class worked with Peter Westley, church volunteers and community members aged from 10 to 92, to assemble the large-scale window.
Camilla Hale, Volunteer Community Engagement Lead for the project, said: “This activity helped young people learn about the heritage of St Laurence Church and why caring for historic buildings matters. Their artwork now fills the space where the Angel Window once stood and shows how the community can shape the church’s future.”
Debbie Sleep, Headteacher of Stroud Valley Community Primary School, said the children will have enjoy seeing their work on display.
“Our pupils loved taking part and learning about the church’s history. Seeing their artwork displayed there has given them a real sense of pride and connection to their local heritage.”
The temporary Angel Window can be seen when the church is open to visitors on Friday and Saturday mornings from 10.30am to 12.30pm. There is also a wealth of church history and a fascinating exhibition on the Arts and Crafts work in St Laurence by the Stroud Local History Society.
The St Laurence Restored project hopes to secure funding over the next two years to repair and reinstate the original Angel Window, along with other windows needing restoration. This work will form part of wider conservation plans – including installing a new roof – to remove the church from the Buildings at Risk register.
