Medieval stained glass returns after restoration

Some of the "finest examples" of medieval stained glass windows have been restored to their former glory and are being reinstalled at a church in Derbyshire.

The three windows, belonging to St John's Parish Church in Dronfield, were removed and taken to Somerset for restoration.

The windows, which are said to date back to the 13th Century, were partly conserved in the 1970s and 1980s when they were covered with perspex but they suffered "major pigment loss".

Project co-ordinator Sue Murphy said the stain glass was a "vital part" of Dronfield's rich heritage and history.

The new conservation process has seen the perspex removed and the windows' original colour restored.

The £179,541 project has been funded by The National Lottery Heritage Fund and has also included research into the church's history, the production of new interpretative materials, and the creation of volunteering opportunities for Dronfield residents.

Ms Murphy said: "It's incredibly exciting to see this next phase begin.

"These windows are not only stunning works of art – they are a vital part of our town's heritage.

"After months of careful conservation, seeing them return home is a proud moment for everyone involved."

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