Church Roof Repair Update: February 2026

Church Repair work

Back in 2020 the stones on one side of the East gable began to disintegrate and there was a leak round the stones on the North Gable.

During repairs to the East Gable, by Adam Stead of Gladstone Masonry, it was discovered that ‘pins’ had not been used to attach the corner stone so they could have all fallen off! Also, the cross on top of the North Gable had de-laminated and fell apart when it was taken down. Cement is harder and less flexible than lime mortar. This can cause softer building materials, such as stone, to deteriorate which can result in leaks round the stones. When the church was rebuilt in the 1950s the coping stones on the gables were attached with cement and we found the stones were disintegrating. In some places cement blocks had been used to replace stones which made the problem even worse.

Further investigation, following decaying plaster in the church, revealed that the lead on the bell tower was split and leaking, and tower roof timbers were rotten. During the 1950’s rebuild thin lead was used to save cost which had now worn and split.

Over 6 years the community has rallied around and raised a considerable sum of money to pay for repairs. Coping stones on two sides have been replaced or repaired, new lead has been put into place and rotten timbers replaced and secured. Due to the fantastic skills of Adam Stead, a new cross was carved. Prior to its lifting into place on the North end, it was blessed in 2024 by the Dean of Hereford, Sarah Brown.

We have spent nearly £100 000 on repairs so far but the work is not completed! Some gable work remains and the vestry roof requires attention. Now that the church is watertight, a new distribution board and lighting is planned for. The aim of doing all this work is to secure the building for the future and increase its uses whilst not ignoring its prime purpose for worship.

We continue to apply for grants to assist the work needed. The church is not listed so many grant sources are not applicable. Also, VAT has to be paid on all work. However, some very generous donations have been received from villagers, ex-villagers, The Friends of Christ Church, local businesses (Withers Fruit Farm) and grants from Herefordshire Historic Churches trust and the William Cadbury Trust. Several successful fund raising events have been held (providing refreshments at Open Gardens and a Craft Fair).

Donations can be given to Marilyn Gilmore (magilmore531@gmail.com), Derek Barnes (derek463@sky.com) or if you would prefer to give a donation via the Friends of Christ Church contact Jonathan Andrew (jonathanandrew@btconnect.com).

We have an EasyFundraising Page too: ChristChurch Wellington Heath roof fund. https://www.easyfundraising.org.uk/causes/christchurchwellingtonheathrooffund/

You can give donations and/or sign up so that we get a small percentage of money spent on internet shopping.