National Lottery Funding Boost for Bishopstone Church

The Parochial Church Council (PCC) of St John the Baptist, Bishopstone, has announced it has been awarded a grant of £248,280 from The National Lottery Heritage Fund.

This very significant investment will fund a major reconstruction project to save the church’s failing North Transept roof and secure the future of one of Wiltshire’s most significant Grade I listed heritage assets.

The North Transept, a 14th-century architectural masterpiece known locally as the "Farmers' Aisle," has been under threat due to severe structural failure in its roof trusses. The urgent repairs will not only preserve the historic fabric of the building—often compared to Salisbury Cathedral for its fine Chilmark stonework— and the significant memorials it contains, but will also allow this part of the church to reopen for wider community use.

Securing a Sustainable Future, the reconstruction project is designed to go beyond simple maintenance. By stabilising the structure, it will enable the PCC to:

· Widen the building’s role: Reclaiming 25% of the church's seating capacity previously cordoned off for safety.

· Increase community access: Creating a versatile, more inclusive, space for concerts, exhibitions, and local gatherings.

· Ensure longevity: Implementing modern ventilation and structural improvements to protect the building from the impacts of climate change.

A community effort, the award follows a dedicated local fundraising campaign. The "Bishopstone Church Roof Appeal" and the Friends of Bishopstone Church have already raised over £58,000 through community events ranging from organ recitals to "Rocket Science" talks. This local support was instrumental in securing a grant from The National Lottery Heritage Fund.

"We are thrilled to have received this support from The National Lottery Heritage Fund," said Church Warden Sarah Seal on behalf of Bishopstone PCC. "This building has been the heart of our community for centuries. Without this grant, the future use of the church as a place of worship would have been in doubt. It ensures that its history is preserved while opening up new possibilities for how the space can serve Bishopstone in the future."

Anne Stutchbury, the Chair of the Friends of Bishopstone Church, said: “The church is a significant historic building and The National Lottery Heritage Fund grant ensures that we leave a legacy for the enjoyment of future generations and for research.”

Stuart McLeod, Director of England - London & South at The National Lottery Heritage Fund, said: “Thanks to National Lottery players, we’re delighted to support the restoration of the North Transept at St John the Baptist Church.

"This remarkable building has been at the heart of Bishopstone for more than 700 years and this project will secure its future for generations to come. As well as protecting an outstanding piece of Wiltshire’s heritage, the work will open up new opportunities for people to come together, discover the church’s history and enjoy it as a vibrant community space.”

It is hoped to start work on the church in early Spring 2026