Lincolnshire Church Outleans Tower of Pisa, Requires Urgent £100,000 Floor Restoration
In a remarkable architectural quirk, St James Church in Dry Doddington, Lincolnshire, boasts a spire that tilts at a staggering 5.1 degrees, significantly exceeding the famous Tower of Pisa's lean of approximately 3.97 degrees. This historic Grade II-listed building, originally constructed in the 12th century as a "Chapel of Ease" for elderly residents to avoid the trek to Westborough, now faces a critical need for over £100,000 in repairs to address its dangerously uneven floor.
Fundraising Campaign Launched for Structural Repairs
Church warden Richard Loynes has initiated an online fundraising effort to replace the ancient floor, which dates back to the 14th century and has become a safety hazard due to shifting stone slabs and rotting timber infested with woodworm. Loynes emphasized the urgency, stating, "We need to raise just over £100,000 to tackle the floor, replaster some walls, and upgrade the electricity, as we currently have only one plug." This campaign follows a previous £100,000 restoration 11 years ago that saved the tower from collapse by addressing eroding stones.
Historical Significance and Ongoing Challenges
The church's tower, added in the 14th century, is believed to have first shifted in the late 19th or early 20th century. Situated at the village's highest point, the building has endured harsh weather, contributing to its structural woes. Despite its precarious state, the church holds historical value, including a memorial to a 49 Squadron Avro Lancaster bomber that crashed nearby in November 1944. The name Dry Doddington derives from Old English, meaning "dry estate of a man called Dodda," reflecting its heritage.
Residents and supporters are rallying to preserve this iconic landmark, highlighting the broader challenges faced by many historic churches across England. With the floor deteriorating rapidly, the community aims to secure funds promptly to ensure the church remains a safe and functional space for future generations.
