For over 750 years St Andrew’s Church has stood tall above the village of Stratton, however, recently the church got taller as a protective canopy was erected in advance of much-needed scheduled work on the chancel roof.

A church spokesperson said: “This was in place before Storm Eunice hit and we all wondered if it had survived in place or found a new resting place. However, thanks to the excellent quality of work by local firm Able Roofing and Scaffolding Ltd, the scaffolding and temporary roofing stayed put.”

Once the storm and winds had subsided, work was able to start with the removal of old slates and guttering.

Internal protection was put in place in case of falling debris but mainly to prevent damage to the organ. This work was undertaken by Lance Foy, Organ Builders of Truro, who will recommission the instrument once the roof repairs are signed off by the architect.

The original roof slates were saved and reinstalled to be in-keeping with other parts of this ancient church.

None of this work would have been possible without grants given by The Blanchminster Trust, Cornwall Historic Churches Trust, Allchurches Trust and the National Churches Trust as well as the Friends of St Andrew’s.

The church will celebrate Mothering Sunday, March 27, and there will be a full range of services for Palm Sunday, Holy Week and Easter. Details can be found on the Friends of St Andrew’s website: www.fosta.org.uk