St Nicholas Church, in the parish of Pett, situated in Pett Level is not a place one passes regularly but discovers by chance and, after, one keeps returning to it. The interesting history started in 1878. The Admiralty constructed a building on Pett Level beach which was to house the life-saving rocket apparatus used by the local coastguard to aid sea-farers and fishermen in difficulties. It became known as the Rocket House. For nearly a century rocket launchers were a key part of HM Coastguard’s ability to save lives at sea. Between the wars the rocket apparatus was moved elsewhere in Pett Level which meant that the building became unused.
In 1935 the diocese bought the Rocket House for £100 and in that April it was dedicated to St Nicholas. In that October it became a space for public worship dedicated by the Bishop of Chichester. Apart between the years 1940-1945, when the church was closed because of the evacuation of Pett Level and the beach was militarised, services have been held continuously. In 2015 expenditure was approved by the council through donations for the restoration of the church. Further generous donations were forthcoming to have two crosses (one metal and one wooden cross) made for the church which Leigh Dyer designed. Over the years since, it has developed a little kitchen and started a book exchange. Bring or take books for a small donation.
A local individual, Fran Breakell has taken on the task of looking after this welcoming space for the community and visitors. Her husband, David Breakell, has just published an interesting book (historical fiction) The Alchemist of Genoa. Behind the church is a lovely and friendly cafe to rest after walking on the beach which is also only a few steps from St Nicholas’ Church. It is a corner well worth visiting, sit peacefully in the church or walk along the sea shore watching the expanse of water and enjoy a coffee/ tea / paninis to regroup.
Image Credits: Heidi Foster .