As you can see from this latest photograph St Mary’s Saxon tower is completely restored the church is still awaiting the return of the two medieval bells and the clock. The beautiful new thatch has changed from golden to dark over recent months. The windows, which have no glass as yet, are covered with netting to allow circulation of air and to keep wildlife at bay.
St Mary’s were given special permission to celebrate communion in the church at Easter.
The altar was a builder’s table, covered with a sheet. This view shows part of the restored wooden beams and the fire-proof membrane which will hopefully protect St Mary’s should the thatched nave catch fire in the future. The east window will be restored, but this will take at least six months to be crafted. Above this window, the PCC has replaced the unstable top of the gable end with new brick work. However, this will not be visible in the restored church as the walls will be lime rendered throughout.
We thank Sue Pennell, Churchwarden at St Mary’s for this update and photographs. She states that restoration works are continuing off-site at the moment, so progress seems slow. However, she hopes and prays that this beloved little church will be completely restored and open for worship in 2026.
We are delighted to see this church returning to its former glory.
If you are doing the Bike Ride, Walk & Drive event on Saturday 13th September it coincides with the monthly service of worship which is held under the tree on the village green next to the church. (If it is wet, worship is in the village hall.) The short service starts at 11.00 am and they would be delighted to welcome those taking part in the sponsored day to join them.
