The Abbey was founded in 1083 as a Benedictine monastery by the Norman Earl of Shrewsbury, Roger de Montgomery.
It grew to be one of the most important and influential abbeys in England, and an important centre of pilgrimage. Although much of the Abbey was destroyed in the 16th century, the nave survived as a parish church, and today serves as the mother church for the Parish of Holy Cross.
The Abbey is a Grade I listed building and is a member of the Greater Churches Group. The Major Churches Network, founded in 1991 as the Greater Churches Network, is a group of Church of England parish churches defined as having exceptional significance.
Following the completion of the new sound and audio loop system Rev Dr Tom Atfield of Shrewsbury Abbey provided the following feedback
Why was the Abbey looking to improve the sound system?
“The sound system that we had was very much on its last legs. It was a set of tannoy speakers which had been in position for many, many years, attached to equipment that was no longer up for the job. It was failing regularly and making our jobs here much harder than they need to be. So it was time for a change.”
How would you describe working with Richard King Systems on this project?
“We chose Richard King Systems as a PCC over many venders and quotes because they came phenomenally highly recommended, particularly by priests with similarly churches to ourselves. And we found this through the process of coming up with a technical design, which was commended by our Diocese Advisory Committee in it’s completeness. From the installation to the after service care has been excellent.”
How would you describe the benefits of the new sound systems and the support that you have been provided with?
“Audibility cannot be taken for granted. We need people to hear our message to get any kind of message out. So it has been foundationally important to make sure our sound system has been working and Richard king Systems have worked with our paid staff and volunteers since installation. Helping us to learn the new system and get it working at peak performance.”
Any closing comments?
“I’d very much recommend Richard King Systems for any church.”
