Medieval Passageway restored
(Video link at foot of page)
The passageway leading to the Churchyard from the Market Place is an ancient route passing the Vestry door and providing access to the rear of the shops and flats as well as the churchyard. Due to years of neglect, the paving had become uneven and dangerous causing pedestrians to trip over especially at night due to poor lighting. There were also drainage issues and loose capping stones on the revetment walls of the Church. Detailed inspection revealed that a comprehensive restoration was necessary and a small steering group was established in 2022 to tackle the project. Alongside the repairs, a new archway at the Market Place entrance was designed to both enhance the space and increase disabled access, and the church notice board relocated. A new bin store was created so that the bins could be removed from the courtyard.
An experienced surveyor was appointed and the Church Architect was consulted along with the Diocesan Adviser because a Faculty (as well as Planning Permission) was required to ensure that heritage and ecclesiastical guidelines were met. Funding was sought from local and national charities, businesses, organisations and by 2024 some £90k had been raised. Competitive tenders were sought and with professional fees and VAT the estimated cost had risen to c £170k. The Lottery Heritage Fund was approached and as a result of their encouragement an application was made to find the balance and in December 2024 approval was given to grant £70k.
The work started in April 2025 with D A Cook Ltd of Evesham as the main contractors and Ben Prothero Blacksmiths dealing with the new archway. The work was completed in August 2025 and a small dedication service was held on 28th September 2025 with the donors and contractors in attendance.
A huge amount of time was devoted to the project by the Steering Committee, all of whom gave their time voluntarily- Martin Portus, James Harbord, Aileen Anderson, John Tiffney and particularly Meg Blumsom who undertook the bulk of the administrative work.
The accompanying video captures the restoration of the passageway thanks to Steve Fearn the official photographer of the project.