Leaning Lincolnshire Church Issues Desperate Plea for £100,000 in Repairs
A historic Lincolnshire church, often called England's answer to the Leaning Tower of Pisa, has made an urgent appeal for £100,000 to fund critical renovations. St. James Church in Dry Doddington is renowned for its distinctive wonky tower, which leans at a remarkable 5.1 degrees—surpassing the tilt of the famous Italian medieval structure, which measures 3.97 degrees.
Structural Challenges and Community Impact
The parish faces a pressing need to address the church's deteriorating condition. The floor is described as very uneven, with timber sections that are severely rotted and infested with woodworm, according to the Lincolnshire Parish Council's website. This precarious state has forced the church to suspend community events, limiting its role as a local hub.
In addition to the floor repairs, the funding will cover replastering walls and upgrading the electrical system, which currently has only one plug socket. Church warden Richard Loynes has launched a GoFundMe campaign to raise the necessary funds, emphasizing the urgency of the situation.
Historical Significance and Past Restoration Efforts
St. James Church dates back to the 12th century, with its iconic leaning spire constructed in the early 14th century. As a grade-II listed building, it has undergone numerous repairs over the decades, including a major restoration of the tower's stonework in 2015. The village of Dry Doddington itself has deep historical roots, with its name derived from Old English meaning dry estate of a man called Dodda and appearing in the 1086 Domesday Book as Dodintune.
The church also holds a memorial to a 49 Squadron Avro Lancaster bomber that crashed near the village in November 1944, adding to its cultural and historical value.
Future Restoration Plans and Fundraising Efforts
Beyond the immediate repairs, future projects include fixing the east window and other safety enhancements to preserve the building for generations. Loynes highlighted the challenges faced by many churches in raising funds, noting that St. James is as bad, if not worse than most due to its unstable floor.
The community's efforts aim to not only restore the structural integrity of the church but also revive its function as a venue for local events, ensuring it remains a cherished landmark in Lincolnshire.
