High Toynton says thanks - but there’s a long way to go

The historic tower at St John the Baptist Church in High Toynton crashed to the ground in January.

An appeal was launched, initially to make the building safe.

Alison Bell, secretary of the Parochial Church Council, said: “The building has now been ‘scaffolded’ outside and inside.

“It has been made waterproof and the site secured with a 10 feet high hoarding all round.

“This has cost the village over £31,000.

“Miraculously, this has been raised and the builders paid, in part due to the generous donations of mainly local people and partly through funds loaned by villagers.”

There will be an on-going programme of fundraising events starting with a May Day concert at St Mary’s , Horncastle, on May 1.

The fund has also received an £800 boost thanks to donations at Robert Bell & Company’s recent general sale, held at Stanhope Hall.

The sale included a section dedicated to raising money for the church with Bells wavering their vendor’s commission to maximise donations.

An appeal for lots brought in 43 items everything sold, from a crucifix to a car jack!

The most valuable lot was a 2018 Half Sovereign, which raised £120, alongside £72 spent on a bedroom suite.

Meanwhile, Mrs Bell went on to reveal discussions were taking place about the next stage of the re-building project.

She explained: “In the past, the church has hosted concerts, exhibitions and even a conference as well as services. We have no other community space.

“This is a wonderful opportunity to rebuild our nave with 21st century lighting and heating.

“We will be looking into the pro and cons of a light and airy porch versus a tower.

“In order to attract funding, we need to identify how this building can fulfil a need in our society that will ensure it is used for many years to come”.

High Toynton is one of only 13 villages in England and Wales where all the men returned from both World Wars.

Mrs Bell added: “ One suggestion is to incorporate an interactive display in the newly refurbished interior to explore what this meant to village life – contrasting this with Low Toynton where none of the men returned. Their church is now in ruins.

“We already have a Living Memory Bank compiled some years ago, along with research on village history.

“This could be a valuable social history resource for schools and other individuals and institutions.”

Mrs Bell confirmed the church was looking to raise around £250,000 , depending on exactly what rebuilding is required.

She added: “Re-constructing the tower would be more expensive then putting up a porch. There’s a lot to decide but it is heartening that so many people are helping us.”

Mrs Bell confirmed it was hoped to apply for grants, including the lottery.

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