During the years that Euxton Hall Chapel remained derelict, its beautiful West facing stained glass window was badly damaged by vandals. Due to the damage caused, and also the fact that painting to some glass pieces and lead work was quickly detteriorating, restoration and preservation was urgently required.

The repair of this window would form a major part of the preservation of the chapel by Andrew Gray, as restoring and protecting such original features for the future was of prime importance to him. Due to the condition of the window, it was necessary to arrange for it to be professionally removed and have it painstakingly restored by leading stained glass experts Jonathon and Ruth Cooke of Ilkley, West Yorkshire.

The main problem to the window was that of breakage, which consisted of single breaks, multicracked pieces, holed pieces and missing pieces throughout the three main lights. The lead matrix, though weakened, remained intact. Given the age and condition of the leads, it was Mr Gray’s wish to try and retain all the original leadwork. There was also visible pigment loss in all three lights to varying degrees. Areas of the window needed to be re-cartooned and new painted pieces inserted, including cold painting to key areas to improve legibility. Controlled cleaning under a microscope was also necessary to remove lichen growth and dust deposits. In an effort to conserve as much original material, including the leads and the condition of painted pigments, once reinstalled, the window was isothermally glazed to protect it for the future.

By 2004, Lady Emma’s face had faded greatly. However, even at this very late stage, it was possible to retouch her features before they were lost forever. Many other painted pieces were also required in order to replace those damaged by the vandals.