This is a text-only version of an article first published on Friday, 17 January 2014. Information shown on this page may no longer be current.
A VICTORIAN radiator hidden inside St Mary's Church in Twyford is causing excitement among building experts. The radiator has been described by buildings engineer Frank Ferris (pictured above) as a real treasure.
The find came to light as the church, built in 1847, prepares to replace its existing boiler and heating system before it breaks down entirely. An expert in church buildings spotted the importance of the small radiator and that's when Mr Ferris was called in to investigate.
He is a member of the Heritage Group of the Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers and runs their website. "It is a wonderful example of Victorian engineering craftsmanship," he said.
"It was made by Rosser and Russell.
The company has a history dating back to the late 1700's but it was probably during the 1860's when this radiator was manufactured. " Mr Ferris believes the radiator may be unique. The church now plans to keep the radiator, which still works, when the remainder of the existing heating system is removed.
Brian Ferris examines the radiator We might even get round to putting a little plaque above it to show future generations just how special it is," said the Revd Simon Howard, Vicar of Ruscombe and Twyford with Hurst.