Lead thieves strike at church
ST MARY’S PLANNING FOR 800TH ANNIVERSARY
LEAD thieves who have targeted an ancient church in Barwell for the second time in three years have left fund-raisers in a race against time to get the roof fixed.
The grade I-listed St Mary’s Church, built in 1220, is facing a £30,000 bill to replace tiles that have been stolen from the south nave and to install a alarm system.
The Anglican place of worship only has insurance to cover £7,500 of the damage, with Friends of Barwell Church now working to raise money for the repairs.
The George Ward Trust has stepped in since the theft to ensure the building is watertight.
Thieves stole two thirds of the metal from the south nave.
Parishioners are due to celebrate the 800th anniversary of the church building next year and they hope to get the roof fixed in time.
The history of St Mary’s dates from 1043, when Earl Leofric and his wife, Lady Godiva, established a Benedictine abbey at Coventry and gave the abbot and the 24 monks lands for their upkeep.
Barwelle, as it was known then, along with 19 other villages, passed into the hands of the abbot.
Philip Watson, rector at the church, said: “As we look back over history, there have been hard times, such as now.
“There have also been many good times and we have much to be thankful for, particularly in the support of our congregation and community.
“If anyone feels able to assist in our fund-raising to ensure our church can stand the rigours of the weather and time for many more years, we would be very appreciative of any help that can be offered.”
In 2016, thieves stole lead from the chancel roof.
The tiles were replaced with stainless steel to avoid further loss and damage to the interior.
■ If you would like to contribute to the fund-raising, cheques should be made payable to Barwell PCC and sent to Reverend P Watson, The Rectory, 14 Church Lane, Barwell, LE9 8DG.