Residents may have spotted an unusual sight above Bengeworth this week as workers continued carrying out repairs to one of Evesham’s most recognisable landmarks.
Photographs shared on social media show contractors working high on the spire of St Peter’s Church, prompting questions from residents about why the church appears to be missing part of its distinctive pinnacle.
The work forms part of a major restoration project after concerns were raised about the condition of the church’s 171-foot spire.
According to the Diocese of Worcester, engineers found the spire had developed a significant lean caused by the corrosion of iron cramps within the structure. As the metal rusted and expanded over time, it gradually forced sections of the stonework out of alignment, creating concerns about the long-term stability of the spire.
Following advice from structural engineers and conservation specialists, a decision was taken to dismantle the affected upper section of the spire and install a temporary cap while plans are developed for its eventual reconstruction.
When the project was announced, the Rev Andy Smith, Vicar of St Peter’s Church, acknowledged that many local people had already noticed changes to the landmark.
He said:
“Many people will have noticed that the spire isn’t as straight as it used to be.”
The church says stone removed from the spire is being carefully catalogued and stored so it can be reused during a future rebuild wherever possible.
St Peter’s launched a fundraising appeal earlier this year after estimating the cost of restoring the historic structure could exceed £500,000.
The Grade II listed church, which dates from 1871-72, has been a prominent feature of the Bengeworth skyline for more than 150 years and can be seen from across large parts of Evesham.
While the sight of workers operating at such a height has attracted attention from passers-by, church leaders say the work is essential to safeguard the building and preserve one of Evesham’s best-known landmarks for future generations.
More information about the restoration project and fundraising campaign is available through St Peter’s Church.
