This major project which involved replacing all the roof timbers including the huge main beam in the tower- all in oak of course, rebuilding the parapets and re-roofing, and completing a new drainage system round the entire church, is now finished. The rectangular brick and flint tower was built in 1693 replacing an earlier round tower which had collapsed, so it is hoped and expected that this work will last another 400 years! The date of this year’s work has been carved into an oak plaque placed on the main beam by the master carpenter. The work was carried out by heritage contractors JG Restorations and project managed by Mike Appleton.
New oak tower roof timbers
On top of the world!
Mike Appleton on the tower roof at the end of the project. Note the large hatch for removing bells if needed at a later date.
This major tower repair work now completes the 3R’s Project to REVEAL, REJUVENATE and REPAIR the church which began in 2010 with the remodelling of the interior of the church, removing the Victorian cement render on the south, east and chancel walls which revealed attractive flint work and the rare Saxon window in the chancel.
The PCC would like to thank all those who supported this particular appeal, with grants, donations and fund raising events, large or small – it is most gratefully appreciated.