Masonry fall closes Isle kirk

A Black Isle church and graveyard has been closed off to the public after masonry fell from the top of the tower.

One of four ball-shaped finials tumbled from the spire of the Church of Scotland building in Rosemarkie at the end of last month. There were no injuries but the site has been padlocked as a precaution.

A safety inspection is currently being carried out at the church, and the congregation is temporarily meeting in Fortrose.

A Church of Scotland spokesman said: “There are four finials on top of the Church tower and one fell sometime between June 26 into the 27, when it was discovered. No one was injured by the masonry and church leaders contacted the local authority, Ross Presbytery and the Church offices in Edinburgh to report the incident as safety is of paramount importance.

“The building is currently closed to the public and the graveyard has been padlocked shut while a safety inspection of the roof is carried out.

“The inspection is ongoing, the congregation has been kept fully informed and currently meeting in Fortrose Hall where they were stay until a resolution is found and repairs done.”

He added: “We hope it will not be long until the church building and graveyard is open again. We apologise for any inconvenience but safety must come first.

“The congregation is very supportive and the church is seen as an important part of the community in Rosemarkie where the Christian faith is live and well.”

Built in 1821, Rosemarkie Church is rectangular and has a square tower at the west end, with four pinnacles, each of which were topped by spherical finials.

A statement on the church’s website said: “One of the finial balls from the spire fell at the end of June, andit is hoped that the necessary remedial works and a full inspection of the building will be complete by the end of July to allow the church and churchyard to be reopened.”

“Padlocked shut while a safety inspection of roof is carried out”

Masonry fell from Rosemarkie Church of Scotland