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Parishioners argue over pews at St Mary's Church, Lenham

A Grade I listed church could rip out its deteriorating historic pews to replace them with modern seating.

Parishioners are set to debate the possibility of removing the Victorian benches, which are on their last legs, later this month.

Despite arguments they are uncomfortable, too high for children, and expensive to restore, some believe they are a valuable part of the village’s history.

Vicar John Huggins hosts a meeting on the future of the church’s seats
Vicar John Huggins hosts a meeting on the future of the church’s seats

Vicar John Huggins said: “Most people are very understanding of the need to do something that’s right for the church practically, aesthetically, and preserves a good spiritual atmosphere while making it open for other things.

“There are practical issues with the pews but some people feel they should be restored and they are part of a heritage in Lenham.”

The removal of pews has proved controversial elsewhere. The move became impossible for Holy Trinity Church in Sittingbourne which had its plans blocked by a judge.

In that case, Steven Gasztowicz QC, deputy commissary general of the Canterbury diocese, argued replacing the historic seats would “result in harm to it as a building of special historical interest.”

St Mary's Church, Lenham
St Mary's Church, Lenham

Mr Huggins added: “The pews here are in a very bad state so we either have to take them out, restore them and put them back in again or replace them with suitable seating.”

Hoping to avoid a clash the clergyman has organised a meeting to find a solution which is suitable to everyone.

“Either option is going to cost a lot of money but we’re at the stage of trying to ask people what they think and find an option people are happy to get behind,” he pledged.

Anyone who wants to express their views can attend the get-together at St Mary’s Church in Church Square, Lenham at 7.30pm on Friday, April 27.

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