THE question of whether to allow electric light to be installed in Malvern Priory was being debated 100 years ago.

The vicar, Rev Canon Pelly, told the congregation the gas lighting was unsatisfactory, for three reasons.

First, the gas illumination was very dim and worshippers had complained they could not see their hymn books. Secondly, the air became very difficult to breathe, causing all concerned to get very sleepy.

"He (the vicar) got up into the pulpit desiring to preach vigorous sermons, but after he was there five minutes he did not know whether he was on his head or his heels. There was something in the atmosphere that took away one's thoughts."

The third reason was that the Priory's stained glass was being damaged by the gas lights' fumes.

It was thought it would cost some £300 to install electric light in the church and the congregation voted in favour.