PROJECT:

This project involved a range of internal and external fabric repairs to a charming village church, featuring a 12th-century Norman tower and a later 18th-century Georgian nave. The works included external masonry repairs, stabilisation measures, internal lime plastering, joinery restoration, timber redecorations, glazing repairs, drainage improvements, and full redecoration of internal walls and ceilings.

Traditional materials and techniques were employed throughout, including the use of hot-mixed lime mortar for masonry repairs and lime plastering. Redecoration utilised linseed-based paints for joinery and breathable clay-based paint for plastered walls and ceilings. A significant part of the project focused on stabilising the leaning east gable. Re-routing of the nearby River Witham during the 18th century altered the clay ground conditions and water table, likely leading to gradual movement of the east gable, which leaned outward and caused internal cracking. To address this issue helibar stitching was installed in the nave walls to secure and stabilise the gable, avoiding invasive underpinning or disturbance to family vaults and graves located close to the base. Evidence of historical movement was uncovered during the works, including slate packing and late 19th-century newspapers found in the affected areas, highlighting previous efforts to address the issue.