On July 26, a group of Aspire, KBR and Jordan and Faber employees had the privilege of visiting Sherriff’s Stained Glass, a family-owned stained-glass workshop, where they observed the talented artisans engaged in the meticulous restoration of the stained-glass windows that had been removed from the Royal Garrison Church at Aldershot earlier this year.

This project represents a collaborative effort between ADSL Capital Projects Team and Sherriff’s, with the shared goal of revitalising the church to its former glory while ensuring its preservation for future generations. A perfect example of our dedication to the principle of Delivering Together.

The restoration process began in February 2024, with skilled craftsmen working diligently to ensure the timely conservation of the windows and their return to the church. It was noted on the visit that stained glass windows are rarely signed by their original artists; however, it is not uncommon to find notes hidden within the frames, left by the artists or the most recent conservators, serving as a secret message that connects generations. On the tour, it was clear that the family-run workshop is dedicated to the conservation and maintenance of England’s historic stained and leaded glass windows, even utilising local artists from Dorset and the nearby town of Glastonbury, Somerset for the glass painting.

As the group gained insight into the intricate and time-honoured craft of stained glass, an art form that has flourished in the United Kingdom for centuries, it was evident how sustainability had a strong emphasis on the work being carried out as Sherriff’s recycle and repurpose the old lead taken from the windows, ensuring no materials are wasted in the process. Interestingly, the workshop also featured specialised glass matching capabilities, allowing them to replicate any irreparable glass in-house, thereby restoring the windows to their original design and maintaining a key part of history.

The founder of the workshop, Steve Sherriff, who passed down the torch to his son Nathan Sherriff, were both honoured with the Freeman of the Worshipful Company of Glaziers & Painters of Glass membership. An accolade not to be taken lightly, as it represents a true expertise and dedication to the ancient craft; and a skill that shone through clearly on the visit.

The experience provided the group with a glimpse into the behind-the-scenes efforts that go into preserving this beautiful art form and it is with no doubt the church windows will be a sight to see when restored later this year. To conclude, a heartfelt thank you goes to Sherriff’s for a great experience.