Grant given to local tower

AN HISTORIC tower “within four to five years of a catastrophic masonry fall” can “continue to serve the local community for decades to come” after a grant worth thousands of pounds.

The £70,170 from HS2’S Community & Environment Fund (CEF) has helped restore Shenstone Tower.

The restoration includes the installation of a staircase to the top and a new viewing platform offering panoramic views of the village and surrounding countryside.

The tower and adjacent church were originally built in the 12th century. The renovations have restored parts of the tower walls back to how they would have originally looked.

Jeremy Cotton, chairman of trustees, said: “The old church tower was neglected, with crumbling masonry and trees growing out of the walls. We knew it was within four to five years of a catastrophic masonry fall.

“Thanks to the funding, we’ve been able to restore the tower and make it accessible to the public. The renovation includes a new platform on the roof so people can climb to the top and get a great view of the local area, and 13 historical information boards which tell the history of the local community since Saxon times.”

Cathy Elliot, independent chair of HS2 Funds, said: “The restoration is a fantastic initiative driven by a group of dedicated volunteers from the local community. We have visited to see first-hand the fantastic restoration.

“The tower has sat at the heart of the village for the last 900 years, and thanks to a variety of fundraising efforts and funders, can continue to serve the local community for decades to come.”