TRUSTEES of one of Okehampton?s most well-known and historic buildings this week appealed to the town for help as they launch a major restoration appeal. St James Chapel in the town centre does not actually belong to the Church of England ? it is vested in the Ecclestiastical Trustees of St James Chapel. The trustees only have a small income from the town council and several other local sources, which is used to maintain the clock system, pay for insurance and minor repairs. But recent inspections have revealed the tower roof needs replacing, as do the oak front doors. The trustees would also like to fit the clock with an automatic re-start system in case of power failures and to renew the clock lighting. But the repairs come with a hefty price tag ? trustees estimate the works could amount to some £60,000. The Rev Stephen Cook, chairman of the trustees, said: ?We are confident the town will rise to the challenge ? the chapel is much loved and is always open in the daytime as an oasis of peace and quiet. ?It may well be that people will want to give money in memory of a loved one, new oak doors, for example, which will last for a century or more, would be a wonderful memorial.? The trustees have already carried out a programme of improvements at the chapel over the years. The west and north facing windows of the tower have been illuminated internally, bringing the tower alive at night. The north facing window of the tower has been re-glazed, a new notice board is being provided and framed historical texts are being refurbished, water-proofed and re-hung. Mr Cook said the trustees have also complied with new disability discrimination laws and provided a portable wheelchair access ramp, large print hymn books and service sheets. Anyone who would like to contribute to the St James Chapel appeal should contact trustee Andrew Bourne on 01837 53784.
