Historic chapel window artwork restored at Telford town centre location
A remarkable piece of local history has been restored and given pride of place at Meeting Point House, Telford, following the replacement of the original 1980s windows in its Octagon Room — formerly the building’s chapel.
During the window replacement project, staff rediscovered a hand-painted glass panel, designed to resemble stained glass, which had quietly remained in place for nearly 30 years. It was only when the windows were carefully removed that a brass plaque was revealed, detailing the story behind the artwork.
The plaque recorded that the glass was commissioned in 1997 by Gary Dixon, then a teacher of Social Life Skills at HMPYOI Brinsford. Despite the challenges of working within a remand centre, where offenders often moved on quickly, Gary recalls that two detainees designed and painted the striking piece as part of a creative project.
The Chairman of Meeting Point Trust, Reverend Keith Osmund-Smith BEM, was determined to uncover more of the story and succeeded in tracking Gary down locally. Gary recently returned to Meeting Point House to share the artwork’s history and reflect on its significance.
When the decision was made to preserve and restore the artwork, Reverend Osmund-Smith knew exactly who to call. Richard Hartley, a master craftsman, was enlisted to build an oak frame. Sunlight exposure had left the painted glass in poor condition, with damage across several sections. After extensive efforts to locate a specialist conservator, Wayne Jenson, CEO of Meeting Point Trust, took on the painstaking restoration work himself.
The restored panel has now been beautifully preserved and installed just outside the Octagon Room, accompanied by a commemorative plaque celebrating its story and the lives it has touched.
“This artwork is more than decorative glass,” said Reverend Keith Osmund-Smith. “It represents creativity, rehabilitation, second chances, and the often-overlooked human stories that shape this building’s history. We are proud to ensure its story is preserved for future generations.”
Wayne Jenson added, “I am glad to have played a part in its restoration and proud to see the finished piece brightening up the walls of Meeting Point House. The restoration serves as a poignant reminder of our unique heritage and continuing mission to provide hope, renewal, and community in Telford.”
