THE £2million year-long refurbishment of Bradford on Avon’s Holy Trinity Church is bringing a golden glow to the building, according to its vicar, the Rev Joanna Abecassis.

After four years of planning, the church held its curtain call service on Christmas Day, and since work began on February 1 the flooring and pews have been removed in the first major work the church has undergone since the 1850s.

The bulk of the funds were raised through the sale of the Christ Blessing painting by Quentin Metsys in 2013 but also involved grants and personal donations from residents and backers.

“This is a massive project and so far it looks amazing. It already has an original medieval look to it and even a golden glow like the Saxon church has,” said Mrs Abecassis.

“Before the floor and carpet were a complete mess and there was damp on the north wall which looked dreadful. We thought it would never come off but we were wrong.

“The whole place looks lighter and brighter too. It is going very well, it is all very exciting. After years of planning it is coming together nicely.

“Members of the congregation are dying to see the work so far. I cannot wait for the first service already.”

The Holy Trinity’s Big Community Connection project also involves adding new furniture, seating, restoration of the organ, monuments and glass, flood prevention, water integrity of the roof and walls and an improved sound system.

The multi-million pound regeneration will also provide opportunities for educational and musical events at the Grade I listed building.

Since January 3, churchgoers have transferred to Christ Church and on every second Sunday the congregation are split between attending services in Wingfield and Westwood.

“They have been incredibly welcoming and hospitable to us all,” said Mrs Abecassis.

“The numbers have rocketed. Both parties have been very happy with it all. It is very generous of them to do this and we have shared their resources which has been very special and a great experience.

“We have already booked the services of the Bishop of Salisbury for our first service back in December. He is really looking forward to it and we will plan something special.”