New Kneeler for Leighton Thomson

On August 17, our vicar blessed a new kneeler in memory of The Reverend Leighton Thomson, who oversaw the rebuilding of Chelsea Old Church after World War Two and was the incumbent for more than 40 years. The original kneeler was made to honour his achievement and was found to be missing at a recent annual inspection. This summer, Judy Ridley and Jane Watherston remade the kneeler to the original design and it can now be seen in the second row of the central southern aisle of the church.

Jane and Judy check the kneelers every year. Jane has cleaned, mended and remade many of the kneelers over the years and Judy has restitched several deemed beyond repair. 

The Kneeler Project began during the rebuilding of Chelsea Old Church after it was bombed flat in April 1941 in the final weeks of the Blitz. The kneelers, stitched and used by members of the congregation since the church was reopened in 1958, celebrate people who have worshiped in the church since the 13th century.

See more about Leighton Thomson

https://www.londonremembers.com/subjects/c-e-leighton-thomson