Volunteer Team of the Year Finalist – Restoring Team

Restoring team – Coventry Cathedral

The love and care and craftmanship of this team of two has saved Coventry Cathedral £333,000.

The chairs at Coventry Cathedral, cherished since the opening of the New Cathedral in 1962, have begun to show their age.

With increased use due to a growing number of events and activities, many are coming apart and in urgent need of repair — hundreds await attention.

Over the past 18 months, two dedicated volunteers have lovingly restored more than 600 chairs — nearly a third of the cathedral’s entire collection.

Their contribution has not only preserved the heritage and integrity of the cathedral’s furnishings but also saved the cathedral over £333,000 — the cost of replacing them with like-for-like chairs is £555 each.

‘What truly sets these volunteers apart is the care, craftsmanship, and faith they pour into every chair.

‘Their skill, commitment, and spirit-led service have been vital to the continued welcome and comfort of all who visit the Cathedral.’

See all of our finalists here.