Refurbished St Mary's Aisle at Truro Cathedral reopened

The grand reopening of St Mary’s Aisle followed an extensive year-long renovation project that began in May 2023.

During this period, the historic aisle, which also functions as a parish church, was closed to the public.

The Rt Revd. Graham James and the Very Revd. Simon Robinson led the rededication service, bringing the aisle back into use for prayer and worship.

A subsequent celebratory event included a ribbon-cutting ceremony by cathedral volunteer Roselle Baker, music performances, and family activities hosted by the cathedral branch of the Mothers’ Union.

The renovated St Mary’s Aisle after the renewal of the roof and repairs to stonework windows and flooring (Image: Truro Cathedral)

Originally part of the 16th-century St Mary's parish church, St Mary’s Aisle was incorporated into the more recent Truro Cathedral.

The aisle underwent significant restoration due to a weathered roof and deteriorating stonework that urgently needed attention.

Notable works included retiling the roof, repairing the parquet floor and restoring the stained-glass windows.

Thanks to donations from residents, legacies, and grants awarded by charitable trusts and foundations, the project was made possible.

Furthermore, the project received an injection of £112,410 from the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Good Growth Programme, managed by Cornwall Council and funded by the UK government.

Rt Revd. Graham James and Dean Simon at the event (Image: Truro Cathedral)

Paul Ramsbottom, Chief Executive of the Wolfson Foundation, said: "It is a great delight to support the restoration of St Mary’s Aisle.

"This project preserves the important heritage of the building and enhances the experience for worshippers and visitors.

"We are particularly pleased again to be funding a major project in Cornwall."

Councillor Louis Gardner from Cornwall Council said: "It’s great to see more of our Good Growth regeneration projects reaching completion.

"Preserving our historic and culturally significant buildings is important, and the £112,410 from the Culture and Heritage-led Regeneration and Skills programme for this project means that St Mary’s Aisle can continue to be enjoyed by our communities and residents."

Judith Field, fundraising lead for Truro Cathedral, said: "I have always felt that St Mary’s Aisle is a wonderful place.

"It has been much missed during the repair and refurbishment works, and my heartfelt thanks go to every individual and organisation whose generosity has made this restoration project possible."