You’ve probably noticed the scaffolding that is currently in place around the church tower. Our last Quinquennial Inspection revealed that the tower roof required a full refurbishment due to deterioration and the presence of a leak into a corner of the belfry.
We knew that this was set to be a very significant job, but we couldn’t know the full extent until the boards on the roof were lifted. Unfortunately, lifting the boards has exposed rotting wood in some major beams; just what we didn’t want to find! A lot of the wood will have to be replaced, making this an even larger job than anticipated. This will now become the largest, most costly project that the Friends have undertaken since our inception in 2013. The cost will be in excess of £51,000.
In addition to the roof, we want to take advantage of having the scaffolding in place in order to restore the clock face. Although it makes financial sense to see to the clock face whilst the scaffolding is in situ, this is a further cost and puts yet another significant pressure on our funds.
I’m pleased to say that The Friends can commit to over half of the cost, thanks to consolidating our funds from donations, membership and events. With other substantial donations from the Hatch Charity, the Friends of Kent Churches, the Benefact Trust and the Parish Council, we can hopefully complete the project.
The Friends of St Mary's Church Lenham 