• Holy Trinity Church hopes to raise £500k in total

TIME has stood still for a church for more than three years but the clock’s hands will soon be turning again thanks to a half-million pound restoration project.

The four dials of the historic clock at Holy Trinity Church, in West Street, Fareham, had stopped at 11 o’clock.

They were taken down last week and sent away for repair, marking a major milestone in the church’s High Time project, which will eventually see the tower restored and the church transformed into a community hub.

Scaffolding and fencing has gone up around the Grade II* listed building and work is under way after a major fundraising drive raised more than half its target in just 10 months.

The Rev Sally Davenport, Rector of Holy Trinity, said she was delighted to see work start.

She said: ‘After the lengthy preparations, it is exciting to see work has begun.

‘In spite of appearances, it’s business as usual, with services and regular activities continuing to take place or the chance to pop in for a moment’s peace.’

The Victorian clock’s dials will be returned by the end of the year, when visitors to Fareham town centre will once again be able to see the correct time.

Structural repairs are being made to the tower and there will also be improvements to the interior of Holy Trinity, making the church more convenient for use by parish and community groups.

Generous donations have been made to the High Time project, including £214,000 from the Heritage Lottery Fund.

In addition, fundraising events are adding to the total needed, which is likely to cost £500,000.

The next is a fayre at the church on Saturday from 11.30am until 2pm. There will be games for children, face painting, stalls, a barbecue, refreshments, beer tent, and much more.

For more go to htscf.org.uk.

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