A historic church in Pinchbeck is launching a £25,000 fundraising appeal after part of its roof fell in and damaged the nave ceiling.
St Mary’s Church, which dates back to 1495, was closed for most of July following the damage. The Grade I listed building has now reopened, with the church organising a special open day to begin its fundraising campaign and invite local people inside.
Open day will launch appeal
The appeal will be launched on Bank Holiday Monday, August 31. The event at St Mary’s Church will run from 11am to 4pm and will include the first chiming of the church clock for several years.
Church warden Louisa Evans said the aim was not only to repair the building but also to make it more welcoming and central to local life.
“With our appeal we are aiming to make the church again the heart of the community, a more welcoming family space, and have services that welcome all and this service is our first attempt at this,”
The £25,000 target covers the first phase of work. The church was already seeking £20,000 for lead repairs to the south porch roof when plaster fell from the nave ceiling. Repairing two panels alone is expected to cost £5,000.
“We were already needing to raise £20k for lead repairs to the south porch roof when some of the plaster on the nave ceiling fell down. To just repair two panels will cost £5k.”
Money previously raised helped pay for repairs to the church clock. An anonymous benefactor also contributed towards regilding its dial. The clock chimes are due to be officially switched on during the August 31 event, alongside the launch of the roof appeal.
More work will be needed
The initial fundraising drive is only phase one of the improvements required at St Mary’s. A second phase is planned to include major electrical work, repairs to the north parapet and restoration of the vestry window.
The church does not yet have full quotations for those projects, but Ms Evans warned that the eventual cost could be substantial.
“We don’t have full quotes for these but you will appreciate it is going to be an eye-watering sum,”
Visitors to the August Bank Holiday open day can expect stalls, a paper aeroplane competition, treasure hunts for children and adults, and a barbecue. Tours of the historic tower will also take place if weather conditions allow.
Events planned to support St Mary’s
The church is preparing a series of further fundraising events. These include a Queen tribute act, a quiz night, the annual Christmas tree festival and a performance by the Spalding-based Mirinesse choir.
The first major event since the church reopened is a Pet Blessing service on Sunday, August 16. The service will begin at 3pm and will be led by the Rev Ian Waters. It is planned to take place outside if the weather is suitable.
A church spokesman encouraged local residents to attend with their families and friends. The August 31 open day will give the community an opportunity to see the historic building, learn about the repairs needed and support the campaign to protect St Mary’s Church for future use.
