All Saints Kirkby Overblow has constantly been adapting through the centuries adopting new technologies and responding to the needs of the local community.

All Saints Parish Church sits at the centre of the small village of Kirby Overblow south of Harrogate and has seen many changes since reference was made to a church in the village in the Domesday Book.  Part of the current building dates back to the 14th century although a fragment of carved stone from the10th century has been found during recent works.

During the 18th century, the tower was largely rebuilt and fitted with a new clock (said to have the longest pendulum in Yorkshire); the chancel was re-roofed and re-paved; and a new porch was built.

In the 19th century new windows were pierced in the north wall, the tower arch and the west window were opened up and a completely new chancel arch was built. In addition a new stone pulpit was erected and new pews were installed. In 1890, improvements in lighting came with oil lamps replacing the old system of candles but the following year a fire destroyed the chancel roof and caused much damage to the choir stalls and organ.

The 20th century change continued with further improvements and the installation of electricity and the removal of some pews.

The millennium was celebrated with the installation of a mezzanine floor and a glass arch in the tower.
In the 21st century this pattern has continued with major changes.

When consideration was being given to providing a space for community activities including arts events and  a venue for the thriving drama group to put on productions, various proposals where considered; these  included building an arts barn or further changes being made to the church. The local community opted for and supported the further reordering of the church to provide a high quality and contemporary community space, with villagers giving generously to fund this project.

Under floor heating was installed, the 19th century pine pews were removed, the building re-wired and a fire alarm system installed along with professional stage lighting to cater for theatre and arts productions.

Today anyone entering this building will be struck by its warmth and light and with its modern facilities and with excellent acoustics the building is now used for a variety of uses including: Church Services, Conferences, Parties, Exhibition, Concerts, Wedding and Fashion Shows, Trade Fairs, Musical Events and Competitions, Drama and Film Shows and as a Recording Venue.  Facilities include

• Seating for 120 with clear sight lines
• Flexible seating and tables
• Data projector & screen,
• Microphones and hearing loops
• Sophisticated lighting system for concerts / theatre
• Wall space for posters and for exhibitions
• Exhibition boards for mounting work
• Small Kitchen with tea & coffee making facilities
• WC and parking area

Change continues and with the regular use being made of the building this has revealed the need for an upgraded kitchen area, improved toilet facilities and a meeting room so work goes on.

Thanks to All Saints Kirby Overblow website for much of the material and photographs used in this article.
www.allsaintschurchko.co.uk/

Another Church near Ripon that has undergone a similar transformation is St John's Sharrow see www.stjohnssharow.org/