St John's is on the At Risk register because of damp seeping into the building causing slow but gradual decay and deterioration. Over the last four years we have had various experts looking into what damage has been caused and how the problem can be solved. The major issues are damp seeping up through the sandstone floor and condensation caused by modern cement render and plaster. 

The only solution is to remove the render and lift the floor, excavating to seal out the damp and insulate before replacing the sandstone flags. Of course this means removing the pews, wall panelling, pulpit and font. This gives us the opportunity to repair and restore these before they are replaced.

The only way we can do this work is if we are lucky enough to get grants from major funders such as The National Heritage Lottery Fund and we are preparing an application to them at the moment. The total cost will be close to half a million, but the work will secure the future of this very special building for many generations. 

Look out for updates over the next months (and possibly years!)