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Hemsby church restorations begin after eight-year fundraiser

By James Weeds, Trainee reporter

HEMSBY RESTORATION 2023A

The church of St Mary the Virgin in Hemsby is undergoing essential maintenance work until the end of the year. Picture - James Weeds (Image: James Weeds)



A Norfolk coastal village church is getting more than £75,000 worth of essential repairs following an eight-year fundraising campaign

Scaffolding is going up around the outside of St Mary the Virgin Church in Hemsby

The tower roof is in bad need of repair to prevent water from entering the interior and causing further damage

The church will also have much of its flint work repointed to ensure it can survive bad turns in weather

HEMSBY RESTORATION 2023
 

The restoration of the tower church of St Mary the Virgin is expected to be complete in November. Picture - James Weeds



Areas of stonework on the tower have also suffered erosion by the elements and require restoration work to prevent further decay
 
The repairs will strengthen the tower's structural integrity and ensure the landmark will remain a viable building for current and future generations to use and enjoy

The Parochial Church Council (PCC) has been raising funds for the church's essential restoration works since 2015. So far, the PCC has raised £27,707

It has also been awarded 11 grants totalling £49,500 for the work

The grants plus fundraising means the work can go ahead

HEMSBY RESTORATION 2023B

Workers were putting up scaffolding around the tower of the church of St Mary the Workers were putting up scaffolding around the tower of the church of St Mary the Virgin. Picture - James Weeds
 



A spokesperson for the PCC said: "We would like to thank everyone who has donated to the Tower Fund, and we have been extremely well supported by the village community and beyond"

The repairs are expected to be complete by November

The church dates from the early 14th Century, although there is mention of a church in the village in the Domesday Book

The building consists of a chancel, nave, and south porch in a decorated and perpendicular style

The church contains an east-facing window behind its altar which was designed for the parish by Caroline Swash and installed in June 1985

The church is open for regular services throughout the year and there is a car park available behind the Barn Room, which is directly opposite the church

If you would like to make a donation, visit www.achurchnearyou.com/church/2895/
 
article courtesy of Diocese of Norwich newsletter
 


 

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