12th Century Tithe Barn Restored with the Help of the Festival

29 Apr 2003

Over the years, Glastonbury Festival has contributed millions of pounds to good causes of all kinds from major charities like Oxfam to small but deserving community projects. Festival organiser Michael Eavis takes great pride in the knowledge that the event has been able to help people in so many diverse ways.

Image provided by BBC SomersetBut few things have pleased him more than three projects the festival is supporting right in its own back yard - the village of Pilton. The most ambitious of these has been the stunning restoration of the village's own 12th century tithe barn, wrecked by fire 50 years ago.


The project was made possible with a grant of £400,000 from English Heritage. The festival contributed a further £100,000 to complete the funding and builder Peter McCurdy (the brains behind the rebuilding of the Globe theatre) Image provided by BBC Somerset moved in to bring about the transformation of the historic and beautiful building. "Peter did a fantastic job for us. He says it's the best he has ever done," said Michael.
"I would have to say this is one of the things I have done in my life that I am most proud of. The barn belongs to the village and it is very satisfying to know that the festival has put something back into Pilton."

Although the barn is currently for agricultural purposes, an application will be made for change of use so that it can be used for a variety of village functions. It is hoped the restoration will be totally finished by the time the festival starts.
The second task was to set about the rebuilding of Pilton Working Men's Club. Funds from the festival have been used to totally refurbish the club and now it's nearly finished an appeal has gone out for new members - male or female.

"It's a wonderful community facility and we want to encourage as many people as possible to join," said Michael.
But it doesn't stop there . . .

Next on the list is a major plan to improve the out-dated village hall, which is woefully in need of an overall and modernisation to bring it up to current fire safety standards.

Michael is hoping the village will be able to secure another grant to get the work underway.

Ultimately the plan is to join the village hall and working men's club together to provide an even better facility.
"These projects are really important to us and I am proud the festival has been able to help in the way it has and the way it always will" said Michael.

Words: Chris Binding
Pictures: BBC Somerset
Thank you to BBC Somerset for allowing us to use their pictures, you can also see more of their information and pictures on their BBC Somerset Glastonbury Festival Site

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