Lottery cash will save historic church tower
A steep spiral staircase winds its way to the top of what is thought to be Preston's oldest working building.
Dating back to 1533, it is fair to say that the damp bell tower at St John Church in Broughton, near Preston, has seen better days.
However, the stone tower – from where the bells ring out at least three times a week – is to be given a new lease of life and will be preserved for future generations to enjoy.
The cracked walls will be strengthened, the roof will be repaired, and general maintenance carried out at a cost of 143,000.
The work, due to be completed in the autumn, has been made possible thanks to a 60,000 English Heritage and Heritage Lottery Fund grant announced this week – and tireless fund-raising in the community.
Canon Sidney Fox said: "I'm very pleased. This is major repair work to keep the water out and keep it for decades to come."
He thanked Chris Couper, volunteer secretary of the church's land and buildings committee, who led the application for funding.
The work is the second phase of a 231,000 job, which began in 2007, to renovate the Grade II* listed Church Lane building, which dates to 1826.
Canon Fox said another 50,000 was still needed to complete the work.
Sara Hilton, NW head of the Heritage Lottery Fund, said: "Historic places of worship are a focus for the community. We are concentrating on the most urgent repair needs."
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Weather for Preston
Thursday 29 July 2010
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