St Botolph’s Secures Future of Historic Tower with Over £175,000 RaisedWe are delighted to share that St Botolph’s Church, Aspley Guise, has successfully raised over £175,000 to carry out urgent repairs to its historic tower. Following a major fundraising effort supported by the congregation, local donors, diocesan officers, and national funders, vital restoration work is now underway.After a 2023 inspection revealed serious safety concerns, the church faced the potential closure of its main entrances. Thanks to generous legacies, a dedicated fundraising campaign, and grants from several trusts — including the National Churches Trust and Beds and Herts Historic Churches Trust — the full amount was secured.Restoration work began in April 2025 and is expected to be completed by the end of August. This project ensures St Botolph’s can continue to offer a welcoming and safe space for worship, prayer, and community life for generations to come.We are deeply grateful for the incredible support that made this possible.St Botolph’s raises over £175k to secure future of historic church tower - The Diocese of St Albans
Building works to restore the church tower will start on 1 April and last until mid-August 2025. During this time, the church will remain open everyday for private prayer and for our normal Sunday Services. Entry to the church at weekends will be through the Lychgate door. During the week, the tower doors will not be in use for the public. There will be an alternative entrance via the Lychgate path towards the back of the church. Please follow the signs. The door into the church is clearly marked as CHURCH ENTRANCE. We regret that there are two steps to this entrance and therefore it is not accessible for those using a wheelchair. During this period, wheelchair access to the church is only available at the weekend via the Lychgate Entrance.
St Botolph’s Church Tower Appeal - Can you help us?Our continuing thanks to all who are supporting this project!The story so far: Our target is to raise £175,000 by spring 2025 We have received grants totalling £108,000. Our thanks go to St Botolph’s Trust, Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire Historic Churches Trust, The William Delafield Trust, Benefact Trust and The Gale Family Trust. We have committed Church Funds of £20,000 Individuals have made generous donations and promises (pledges) totalling £16.500 Our fundraising events have raised £6,500.We are getting very close to our target, we just need £24,000…….If you would like to donate or make a pledge, please contact our Treasurer, Phil Armitage. (phil@armitage.uk.com )January 2025
