We have had a very busy year where the focus has been on further investigating the condition of the structure of the Grade 1 listed St James Church. We have also been actively ‘Having Fun whilst Fundraising’ for essential repairs.

You may well recall the sight of the steeplejacks last Spring when they were suspended by ropes from the steeple, clearing loose stonework and shrubs and assessing the condition of the steeple and tower. Their report confirmed that the tower and spire are in much need of repair.

The Church Architect spent several months carrying out the Quinquennial inspection which is mandatory every five years. His report brought further worrying news to add to the above, the leaky roofs, and the struggling heating system: There are major issues with the stonework, roofs and roof abutments, window surrounds, guttering and downpipes.

Built of soft local sandstone and lias limestone, it is no surprise that St James needs major renovation work after almost 700 years. St James has served our community for many generations, something of which we are very proud but that brings with it huge responsibilities. We are custodians of our heritage for the generations who will come after us. You will no doubt be aware of the outward signs of this deterioration; the clock that no longer works, the bells that can no longer be rung as the resonance would cause further damage, and the footpaths that are pot-holed and difficult to walk along.

As you look around this impressive 14th Century building, you cannot fail to be touched by the Medieval wall paintings, beautiful early Victorian stained glass, impressive and rare 100 year-old carved rood screen and 16th century pulpit… and many other treasures besides. The clerestory above the congregation’s heads is 53 feet high (over 16 metres) and gives the most marvellous acoustic sound when concerts take place here.

We are very fortunate in being very well supported by many in the Southam community. Our recent churchyard clean-up brought out 16 volunteers who cleared out drains and gulleys, swept, weeded and pruned. Our frequent and varied fund-raising events are well attended and beginning to raise much-needed funds. Perhaps you, your friends and family have enjoyed one of these events yourselves? Maybe you have been to a Concert? A Supper, Lunch or Afternoon Tea? Christmas Tree Festival? Heritage Open Day? Arts Festival? Have you or your children danced here as part of Project OK? Do you bring your little ones along to Footprints, our inclusive playgroup? Did you enjoy our Treasure Trail and a complementary Easter Egg? Over the next few months we are planning many more events, do please come along and encourage your friends and family to do so, too.

As a result of the funds raised and support from the community, we are delighted to have been awarded grants for almost £11,000 which will top-up our funds and enable us to repair the tiled roofs, gutters, drainpipes etc. Whilst this is a ‘drop in the ocean’, the tiled roofs must be kept in a safe state of repair as so many in our community walk close to them and beneath them.

Over the next couple of months we are part of the Warwickshire Open Studios and Southam Arts Trail from June 21st to July 5th (various dates) and on Sunday July 6th at 3pm, Divertimento return to perform a wonderful new concert in the atmospheric setting of St James. Tickets are available from the church office (01926 812413 or [email protected]) or Eventbrite. Early bird tickets £12 (before 13th June), £15 after the 13th.

We hope that on a visit to St James, you will take a few moments to view our display which shows photographs taken by the steeplejacks and the Architect of some of the more major structural issues.

Perhaps the final words should go to two of the many people who completed our recent survey: ‘What Does St James Church Mean to You?’.

“I love this beautiful building and all the space it offers. Family events are needed in this town and St James offers a great place for families to meet.”

“The church to me as an outsider gave a hug at my darkest moment of need. It is a beautiful historical landmark in Southam both inside and out, supporting mental health and well-being and giving people hope and faith.”