St Mary the Virgin in the Old Town is a Grade 1 Listed building, dating back to the 12th century.
A spokesperson for the church, said: “The current roof dates to the restoration of 1873 when significant work was undertaken, including the re-roofing of the whole church. The intervening 150 years has seen patching to the Nave and Chancel slate roofs but they are now in need of urgent restoration. The funds we raise will also go towards important restoration of our beautiful early 20th Century East Window which has been letting in water during heavy storms.
“St Mary’s is a fine example of transitional Norman architecture, built in the late 12th Century and boasting Sussex chequerboard flint stonework. The church has undergone significant construction and alterations over the centuries with major work in the 12th, 14th and 19th centuries and again after sustaining bomb damage in WWII. We need to raise over £500,000 to fund the restoration and safeguard this ancient building for future generations.”
Patron, Rev’d Richard Coles, said:“Unless the Lord “builds the house, the builders labour in vain, says the Psalm, which has been recited in St Mary’s Eastbourne for the last 900 years. But the builders’ labour is always required too and we need it urgently now to fix our slate roofs in order to ensure this and future generations are able to celebrate here their best days and find consolation on their worst (and everything in between). If you are able to help us, and them, then please donate to our appeal.”
MP Josh Babarinde, who is also a patron, said: “ Eastbourne is blessed with a beautiful medieval parish church which has been serving its community continuously for nearly 900 years. The church roofs deserve to be restored to tip top condition so that St Mary’s can continue this tradition of worship and service now and for future generations.”
You can donate to our appeal by giving online at StMary’sRoofAppeal