For over 100 years, Woodford Baptist Church in Essex has looked the same inside and out, and, apart from the occasional coat of paint, it has never undergone any major work. But, towards the end of 2001, the congregation decided that it was time for a total modernisation of its church and to make the interior more contemporary and comfortable, stackable chairs replaced pews and a new carpet was laid. In addition, 17 units of Maltbury's popular mid-weight staging, Metrodeck, were bought to create a multi-purpose stage area.
The church had a set of criteria which determined the choice of staging: it was vital it was user-friendly, adaptable, demountable and strong. After researching several staging companies, Maltbury was approached to supply the units and, according to Neil Spencer, minister for the church: "the combination of quality and price made Maltbury's Metrodeck the ideal solution. The strength and flexibility of Metrodeck particularly impressed me: used in the church, it serves as a preaching platform and, moved to the church hall, it provided a stage for our Christmas production last year."
The result of the refurbishment was a versatile, open space suitable for use in a wide variety of situations. Currently installed in the church's main worship area, the Metrodeck is in continual use providing a permanent platform for a range of activities, including weddings, concerts and worship services. Also in Essex, Maltbury supplied Metrodeck to Wickford Church for use by the church's drama group. Having learnt about Maltbury and its products on the Internet, the group bought 13 units of the mid-weight staging system, which was delivered this January.
Providing the ideal solution to the group's requirements, the Metrodeck units were installed in the church hall and have since been used by the drama group for a Panto production. "As the group performs regularly throughout the year, the chosen staging had to be easy to handle, sturdy and versatile," explained Doris Westgarth, a member of the group. "We are very pleased with the Metrodeck and impressed that it is not only adaptable and strong, but also incredibly good value for money. I would definitely recommend Maltbury and its products!"
Lee Baldock
