Historic treasures uncovered in church

Boxgrove Priory Church is currently undergoing a major restoration project which has led to some interesting finds from its long history.

Excavation work has uncovered the complete 18th century brick central aisle, and a glass tube containing notes dating back to the Second World War and the 1960s has also been discovered.

The tube, which was discovered wedged in part of the vaulted ceiling, contains notes dating back to 1940 and 1966 and provides a commentary on the condition of the church's painted ceiling. The ceiling dates back to 1530 and was painted by Lambert Barnard.

Father Ian Forrester, Priest-in-Charge, said: "We are in the first stages of a major restoration. It means we are looking from top to tail at the fabric of the church and we are in the process of excavating at the moment."

For full story see West Sussex Gazette December 24