An historic church tower damaged in a Black Country earthquake has still not been restored to its former glory sparking a renewed appeal for funds.
Supporters of St James the Great Church, which was consecrated in 1823, say it is a shame the landmark tower remains sealed off after the quake in 2002. Repairs to the tower at the Grade II listed church in Lower Gornal could total more than £30,000 according to churchgoers. The mayor of Dudley, councillor David Stanley, said it was high time the monument was repaired.
Councillor Stanley, a former churchwarden, said: “The tower is still in a state of disrepair going back to the Gornal earthquake and the fencing is still erected for safety.
“The sooner we get this tower restored to its former glory the better because at the moment with the fencing around it is not looking very attractive.”
Until repairs are carried out the bell in the tower cannot peal.
To help raise funds worshippers who formed the Silveroaks bowls club will be donating money received from an event held this week to the restoration fund.
The mayor went along to the open afternoon, he said: “I wanted to show my support for the parishioners and their appeal.
“I also wanted to help plug the bowls club which needs to boost its numbers.”
The club meets every Thursday and Friday and has been described as ‘a lifeline’ for many of the older players for whom it is a social occasion.
As well as shelling out for repairs to the tower, funds are also used for the general upkeep of the church.
The pot of cash had to be tapped into when the church was the victim of two lead thefts.
People are invited to a concert on Wednesday at 7pm by the OldSwinford School Swing band and the choir at Milking Bank Primary School.
Tickets cost £5 and will go towards the restoration.
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