A new stained-glass window has been officially unveiled in the Victorian Bridge Chamber at Rochester.
The decorative window has been installed at the west end of the building, replacing the previous plain glass. It was donated by Russell Cooper, in recognition of his service as Senior Warden of the Rochester Bridge Trust from 2017 to 2021.
The new window was dedicated during a private ceremony led by the Dean of Rochester, The Very Reverend Dr Philip Hesketh DL, and attended by Mr Cooper and his family, as well as members of the Court of Wardens and Assistants of Rochester Bridge.
Bridge Clerk Sue Threader said: “We are very grateful to Russell for his long and dedicated service to the Trust, and for this kind donation that improves the visual appeal of the Bridge Chamber.
“The window catches the afternoon sun, bringing a warming splash of colour to the building, which was completely refurbished and made fully accessible just a few years ago.”
The window is of a simple, striking design taking elements from other windows in the building. It bears the crest of the Rochester Bridge Trust, with decorative detail around the edges, and an inscription acknowledging the donation.
Russell Cooper said: “It gives me great pleasure to see the window in place and complementing the good work of the refurbishment. Having been involved with the Trust for nearly 20 years, I am very aware of the valuable work it does in providing a crossing of the River Medway free of charge, and its other charitable activities. I am proud to have played a role in the running of the Trust and to have contributed to the fabric of the listed building that is its home.”
The Rochester Bridge Trust is an ancient charity. Established in 1399, it is overseen by a board of trustees known as the Court. This is headed up by a Senior Warden and a Junior Warden, in a tradition that has continued unbroken for more than six centuries.
The Bridge Chamber is the traditional meeting place of the Court of Wardens and Assistants of the Rochester Bridge Trust – the trustees. The building in its current form was constructed in 1878, when the stained-glass window over the main staircase was installed thanks to a donation from the trustees at the time.
All of the Trust’s work is carried out at no cost to the public.
