Historic lychgate rescued from collapse
— 24 Feb 2022
The lychgate reinvigorated with careful and considered repairs
Prior to the repairs, the lychgate was dangerous to use because of falling slates
The lychgate had suffered from significant weathering
Specialist craftsmen Belstone Joinery Ltd repaired or replaced timbers as required
The curved braces being repaired and new braces carved. Image courtesy Jonathan Jackson, Belstone Joinery Ltd
Traditional joinery, by local craftsmen. Image courtesy Jonathan Jackson, Belstone Joinery Ltd
The lychgate restored for the community and future generations
In the Quinquennial Inspection for the church of All Saints, Monkokehampton, Architect Martin Sturley-Hayes identified the lychgate as needing significant repair. Years of weathering had left it in a dangerous condition with decayed timber, structure, corroding steelwork and failing roof.
The Grade II listed lychgate has an oak frame supported with curved braces and a slate gablet roof with alternating plain, diamond set and fish scale courses.
Martin advised the PCC on an appropriate repair strategy balancing the need to retain as much sound historic fabric as possible whilst replacing decayed material using matching details.
Specialist carpenters, Belstone Joinery Ltd were selected by the church PCC for the repairs, scarfing new timbers into the old and carving new timbers where appropriate such as the new curved chamfered oak braces. Original timbers have been repaired and oiled and the high-quality workmanship and joinery replacement replicates details from the original structure.
The concrete plinths have been removed which has exposed the original/earlier granite bases and the base rails have been replaced with new oak bearers - a significant improvement both visually and technically.
With the lychgate repairs completed, we have advised the PCC on a suggested maintenance schedule going forwards to promote regular maintenance for long-term survival.
