Work started early in October with the erection of the first stage of scaffolding. All tiles were then removed, followed by the shingles covering the sides and roof of the tower. Two further stages of scaffolding had to be added to allow work to reach the top of the tower (Click to see pictures).
Decayed structural woodwork near the south east corner had to be replaced. There is minor damage to ceiling panels inside the church – repairs to these will probably be scheduled for mid-January.
New tiles have been laid on much of the roof surface (see pictures, taken in mid-November). In addition the old cedar shingles on the spire have been replaced by oak shakes, with work starting on the tower cladding.
Close examination of the lightning conductor meant complete renewal and extension was required.
The ironwork of the gutters and weathercock will be painted black and the ‘gilding’ of the compass points and ‘bird’ are being assessed whilst on the ground.
Mike Cole is in conversation with the Licensed Places of Worship and ChurchCare for a top-up grant to cover a shortfall of £4.7k. We have every hope that this will be successful.
All in all, the project is going well, and completion is still expected before Christmas, including removal of scaffolding, but excluding repairs to the inside ceiling that are planned for January.
The project works are to:-
Re-roof South slope to Nave and Chancel
Re-shingle Tower
Repoint cover flashings
Repair other defective tiling
Remove moss from roof slopes
Richard Eldridge, Mike Cole and Colin Hunt.
21st November 2017