St Andrew’s Church Tower Restoration

Marks Tey Church has a very distinctive and unusual tower. The bottom half is of masonry built in two stages and the top half is of timber construction clad in boards under a spire. From an investigation last year we know the Tower was constructed in 1494. The church is in a beautiful setting and a treasured landmark for travellers on the train and those along the A120.

From the 2018 five yearly inspection report by the Church Architect we  were put on notice to undertake repairs in the subsequent five year period. In 2021 an appeal was opened to raise funds towards the future repair of the tower.

In 2023 our Architect prepared a detailed specification for works including the recladding of the spire, the belfry, strengthening of the timber frame and repairs to the lower masonry section. Tenders were received on 20 December 2023 and the best price was from Punch Construction based at Inworth near Kelvedon. The building costs and fees amount to nearly £182000 excluding VAT. Fortunately we should be able to reclaim the tax as we are a listed place of worship. It is hoped that the work can start in September 2024 when the contractors are available.

Substantial fund raising has been undertaken in the last 3 years and a series of grant applications have been made since the start of the year and consequently nearly two thirds of the expected costs have been found. A further £66000 is required and it is hoped this will be covered by the grant applications awaiting consideration and by additional local donations.

Cheques can be sent to our treasurer Yvonne Norman at 29 Coggeshall Road, Marks Tey CO6 1LL and should be made out to “Marks Tey Parochial Church Council”. Alternatively money can be transferred to our account. The sort code is 20-22-67 and the account number is 50606979. Your donation can be increased by 25% simply by signing a gift aid form (available from Yvonne) if you are a UK taxpayer, enabling us to reclaim tax on your gift.