THE DAMAGE TO THE WEST WINDOW
Our east window was completed in 1920, but much of the design of the current window is pulled from a similar window that had occupied its place since 1862. The middle 5 columns, or “lights” of the window replicate the original 1862 window, and are therefore a stunning example of Victorian art executed in the modern era. The window depicts the scene of the Transfiguration of Christ, where He appears radiant in glory atop a mountain.
Hull Minster is appealing for public support to help fund the repair and conservation of its historic stained glass windows, following damage sustained to the church’s Great West Window in February 2026.
The incident, caused by a rugby ball striking the window, prompted an immediate fundraising effort to secure emergency repairs and begin the process of pursuing full restoration through the Diocese of York. Thanks to the generosity of supporters, the appeal has already raised more than £8,000, enabling temporary repairs to be carried out and essential next steps to be taken.
Hull Minster has expressed its sincere thanks to all those who have donated so far.
However, the damage to the Minster’s windows extends far beyond the recent incident. A wider condition assessment undertaken by the York Glaziers Trust in winter 2025 identified a much broader programme of repairs across the building, with the total cost of works estimated at around £30,000, excluding access costs.
The repair programme includes work to the Minster’s principal East and West Windows, glazing in the bell tower, stained glass in the North Transept, and damaged windows along the north side of the nave. In a number of cases, the leadwork and supporting structure have deteriorated over time, while some panes have also been damaged by a range of causes including birds and air rifle impacts.
AIR RIFLE DAMAGE TO THE EAST WINDOW
The East window, the largest in Hull Minster, has at least 8 breakages in its upper lights due to damage sustained by an air rifle. The window, dating from 1919, depicts Christ as King, and includes a litany of characters from the old testament and a collection of saints, including St. Gabriel and St. Raphael.
In recent weeks, Hull Minster has been approached by anonymous benefactors, who have offered a significant boost to the appeal. They have pledged to match every pound donated between now and the completion of the West Window repairs, up to a total of £15,000.
This means that every public donation made to the appeal during this period will effectively be doubled.
This presents a remarkable opportunity not only to preserve and restore an important part of Hull’s heritage, but also to improve the building’s environmental performance. Weather-tight windows are vital not just for conservation, but also for helping to reduce heat loss and improve the Minster’s long-term sustainability.
Hull Minster’s Heritage Manager, James Cameron:
“The repair of these windows is about far more than restoring beautiful stained glass. It is about protecting a major part of Hull’s heritage, improving the resilience of the building, and helping ensure Hull Minster remains sustainable for the future.
We are deeply grateful for the support already shown, and this new match-funding opportunity gives us a real chance to make lasting progress.”
Hull Minster is now encouraging supporters, local stakeholders, and all those with an interest in preserving the city’s history to contribute to the Stained Glass Appeal and to help spread the word.
If you are able to donate, you can do so by clicking the following button:
The Minster also plans to work with partners across the city and to develop a programme of special events and activities in the coming months to raise awareness of the appeal and the significance of its stained glass.
As a further thank you to supporters, Hull Minster intends to host a Fundraising Party on Saturday 8 August for those who have donated via its GoFundMe page. Further details will be announced in due course.
Together, we can help save Hull Minster’s stained glass and preserve an irreplaceable part of the city’s heritage.