Next steps

On an autumn afternoon in 2024, volunteers at Our Ladye Star of the Sea found something that had been hidden for almost 60 years.

They were working on the restoration project and had begun the process of removing the 1960s cork tiles to reveal the original red and black Victorian quarry tiles.

But close to the altar they stumbled across some ornately decorated tiles, believed to be designed and commissioned by Pugin himself, which once had formed a ‘votive square’ with inscriptions remembering Our Lady.

They’d been put there by craftsmen more than 170 years ago. How remarkable is it to say they have made a new Pugin discovery?

That’s one example of how we’re beginning to move forward with our restoration, step by step, learning more as we go along.

This website is part of that process, providing a place where we’ll be able to share updates and invite support for the next stages of the restoration scheme.

The importance of the project has been established with a formal Statement of Heritage Significance. And the need for action is reflected in Historic England putting the church on its register of heritage at risk.

There will be a need for professional involvement, such as ensuring the building is watertight and the stonework is secure.

But we’ll still want to involve volunteers from the parish and other supporters, including in fundraising initiatives. See photos of our team at work in the restoration-gallery.

In the months and years ahead we’ll need many different skills to restore this beautiful church. Get in touch if you want to join us.