THE community of East Brent are celebrating the confirmation of funding that will enable urgent repairs to their historic church building.

St Mary’s Church was built in the 15th century and is a Grade I listed building, as an extraordinary medieval building full of incredible features that offer a glimpse into England’s rich past.

The interior is dominated by an extremely rare, ribbed plaster ceiling to the nave, dated 1637, and visitors come from far and wide to view it.

Due to the rapidly declining condition of the roof, however, the building continues to deteriorate.

The leaking roof enables water to pour inside, causing significant damage to the extraordinary ceiling.

This repair requires urgent attention, as the plaster ceiling is at risk of collapsing.

Thanks to a grant of £50,000 from Viridor Credits, through the Landfill Communities Fund, phase one of the urgent roof repairs commenced last week.

Other supporters include the Nuttall Trust, Somerset Churches Trust and local private donations.

Burnham and Highbridge Weekly News:

APPEAL: Revd Kevin Wright, Rector, outside St Mary's Church

The total project will cost approximately £155,000, exclusive of VAT, and with the community’s’ help it is hoped that the further phases of repair will start later this year.

The parish plans to establish a supporters’ group, who will have a keen interest in historic building conservation and support with fundraising.

Revd Kevin Wright, Rector, said: “I believe St Mary’s Church is an important symbol of the faith that has been in East Brent for almost a thousand years, and is an asset to the community.

“I do not want to see it closed, and I appeal for your help in securing its future and developing it as a community resource.”

A ‘get to know your church’ community open day will be held on Saturday, July 31.