Church looks forward after fire

The blaze, on Thursday, July 15, destroyed the roof of the 13th Century building and left it structurally unsafe.

It is still unclear what caused the fire, which started inside the locked church, but it is not being treated as suspicious.

After the initial shock, representatives from the insurance company, the church's architect, the loss adjuster and members of the parish church met to discuss a way forward and a substantial cheque was handed to the church to buy the necessary items for worship to continue in the village.

Originally East Sussex Fire and Rescue estimated the cost of the damage at around 100,000, but Hilda Aplin, treasurer of the Parochial Church Council says this figure may not even cover the roof repair.

The church organ, valued between 50,000-60,000, was also completely destroyed in the fire.

But there was some good news, as the altar, pulpit, lectern and font, although damaged by fire, debris and water, can be restored to their former glory.

The lectern and the altar have been removed from the church to be assessed and renovated.

The pulpit would not go through any of the doors, so remains in the church awaiting further inspection, although Faith, Hope and Charity, the wooden figures surrounding the pulpit, have been removed and taken to a secure storage area.

All the church windows, which had been repaired in the last few years, were smoke damaged and the west window was blown out. The east window has a hole in it, but can be repaired.

Looking to the future, the church has decided the restored building should have a water supply, to allow for a small kitchen and toilet.

Hilda said: "The PCC have a tremendous responsibility into looking into the church's future needs.

"They have been given a chance for church renewal/rebirth in many ways.

"They will need to make the church more versatile, warm and welcoming, although on saying that, many people have commented on the warmth of fellowship felt when entering the church. They need to think about future worshippers and what will be needed them."

A major fundraising appeal has been launched, and so far 2,194.60 has been raised, including 929.60 raised at the Whatlington Fete and cream tea event.

Brownbread Horse Rescue Centre in Ashburnham has offered the church a stall at its Open Day on Sunday September 12, Adam from Jempsons/Budgens in Battle has offered a table outside the shop at Christmas time and several people have offered to host fundraising events.

The church is appealing for donations, no matter how small.

Donations can be sent to Mrs H M Aplin, The Treasurer, Lismoyne, Oakhurst Road, Battle, TN33 0JL. Cheques should be made payable to The PCC of Whatlington St Mary Magdalene Church Appeal.

A separate account has been opened and the bank statement will be available for all to see.

All donations will be acknowledged and should anyone wish to make an anonymous donation, the church offers its thanks.

Any cheques which had been made payable to Whatlington PCC will still go to the correct account.

Tax payers wishing to make a donation should inform the treasurer, as a registered charity can claim income tax relief on the donation.

The treasurer will send out a form to complete and sign, and any tax claimed back is likely to give a substantial boost to the appeal.

Hilda added: "The PCC of Whatlington is really looking forward to the future and is thankful, in a way, that they have been given this wonderful chance to move the church forward.

"On behalf of the Parochial Church Council of Whatlington, may I once again thank the fire brigade and the police for all their help, Ecclesiastical Insurance for their prompt attention, and Canon Alan for his leadership."