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BERDEN HERITAGE - Telling the stories of St Nicholas, Berden

St Nicholas Church – Tower Restoration

St Nicholas Church is an active place of worship and at the heart of our community.

In 2024 we were awarded The National Churches Trust “Open for visitors” award – ENGLAND in 2024 for the work we do to welcome people to St Nicholas Church.

We host a number of Community events, including our

  • popular biannual village fete
  • alternating biannual open gardens
  • live music events
  • community fish / harvest suppers
  • pop up cafes!
  • Church talks
  • Champing
  • plus, lots more!

We are a grade 1 listed building and every 4-5 years St Nicholas Church receives a Quinquennial inspection to identify repairs required to keep the Church building well maintained.

In our 2022 report a number of repairs were identified as Category AA - requiring immediate attention

These included repairs to our Church tower such as

  • Formation of new lead gutters, sumps, flashings, and chutes with new steps and falls to the Tower parapet gutter.
  • Repairs to roof timbers and renewal of peg tile roof to the Tower.
  • Masonry repairs to the parapets at Tower roof level and Tower elevations as identified. Repairs to existing timber louvres to Belfry openings.
  • Reinstallation of existing apex Cross to Tower roof.

Rev’d Gary Fleming said

By protecting the tower, the community ensures that future generations will continue to look up at its sturdy walls and feel the same sense of belonging as those who came before. Built with expert craftsmanship, the tower represents centuries of architectural tradition. Its construction reflects the skill and dedication of those who shaped it, making it an invaluable cultural and historical asset. Therefore, restoring and maintaining the tower allows us to preserve these techniques, educating both locals and visitors about the artistry and labour that went into its creation.

By working together, the community can ensure that the tower remains not just a piece of history, but an active and valued part of Berden’s landscape. By investing in its preservation, the people of Berden protect more than just a structure; they safeguard a legacy that has helped define the village for centuries.

Let’s ensure it continues to stand tall, offering direction and inspiration for generations to come.

Circular logo featuring a photograph of St. Nicholas Church in Berden, Essex, surrounded by text that reads "St. Nicholas Berden Tower Restoration Appeal." The church, set against a blue sky, shows a stone tower, red tile roof, and a green door. The text is in a navy blue font on a white background, bordered by the same navy blue.

The Tower Restoration works will cost over £170,000 and we are delighted to have raised these funds with the support of the local community through our Tower Restoration appeal and a grant from The National Lottery Heritage Fund.

Click here to find out more about St Nicholas Church Berden