In the 1930s tie rods were fixed to the roof structure on either side of the church to hold up the top part of the east wall. They were anchored to roof braces using sections of cart tyre. On the outside, a long piece of iron also made from a cart tyre was used to fix both rods. Unfortunately, this put pressure on the roof timbers, causing further structural damage. In 2002 the old rods were removed and replaced with stainless steel ones anchored to the main body of the tower.

This picture taken in 1994 clearly shows the iron cart wheel tyre on the outside of the east wall close to the apex of the roof.

1990 - Leaking lead roof. Some attempt was made to stop rain water causing damage to the plaster work and beams by covering the area with PVC sheeting. This did not work because the water got through anyway and caused the joists and lath and plaster to rot.

Lead and boarding removed from the leaking area. The ladder is coming up through the ceiling area which had become unsafe. The joists had to be totally replaced also lath and plaster work using the traditional methods.

This shot shows repaired and replaced joists. Also new laths and plaster (a form of lime mortar with horse hair to strengthen it). On the left hand side you can see a new stainless steel rod that runs the whole length of the church to hold the east wall back.