UPDATE 15/10/22
We are pleased to announce that due to the generosity of the community, and grants from fine charities, the proposed building works are planned to take place from 17th October 2022 for approximately 6 weeks. This will ensure the church fabric and particularly the wonderful wall paintings are secure for future generations. This will however mean that there will be significant disruption to the whole site (graveyard and church) for this time. We apologies to our neighbours, friends, guests and members for this inconvenience.
If you have any queries during this time, please do contact Revd Grant Fensome: 01491 671555
The Project
The church of St Clement is a Grade 1 listed national treasure. Built in the 12th century, it has many original features, including a Leper’s squint, Mason’s sign, and especially fascinating, the stump of an ancient tree built into the North wall, reputed to be the tree under which the gospel was preached before the church was built.
The key reason the church is held in national regard is the outstanding art on its walls, introduced into the church around 1230/40. The wall paintings include: The Annunciation, The Visitation; The Nativity; The Appearance of the Angel to the Shepherds (and their dog); a Doom with Apostles and Rood Cross above the chancel arch; St Christopher; and patterning in the chancel.
Having described its history, we have to say that this is no museum – the church is much loved by locals and visitors because it is the lively heart of the community, active and relevant to life today maintaining a committed congregation and regular worship throughout the year.
The Immediate Problem:
In 2018, the quinquennial report identified several fabric issues which needed to be addressed as matters of priority, including urgent work to roof, rainwater goods, windows, tower, with concern also expressed over some of the electrical wiring and rising damp in the east (Chancel) walls. In 2019 more challenges arose when sections of the nave ceiling became unstable – some even falling down! The total cost of this necessary work was estimated at £64,521
The solution:
Towards the end of 2018, the PCC launched a local appeal for funding with an 18 months strategy. The dangerous ceilings and electrical work, along with vermin infestation of the tower, had to be dealt with immediately but the Covid-19 restrictions delayed the final stages of both fundraising and repairs.
We now feel able to re-launch our appeal, and plan to complete all urgent repairs before the end of 2021. Despite having had to phase the work (internal and external) we see this as one project which will ensure that:
the church is weatherproof, safe, and accessible
the treasures within it are secured
the building is fit to serve its purpose - which we see as service to, and support for the congregation, community and visitors, regardless of age, background or faith.
If you have any questions at all regarding this project or anything to do with it, please do not hesitate to contact our churchwarden, Mrs Caroline Butler, 01635 578438 or email baggchute@gmail.com
