Parishioners of a landmark Cornish church have called for support to keep their beloved building in working condition.  

St Probus & St Grace, in the village of Probus just outside Truro, has Cornwall’s tallest church tower and is founded on what may be one of the earliest Christian sites in the UK, possibly dating back to fourth century. 

It’s a major hub for the modern village, which has around 2,500 inhabitants. As well as conducting twice-weekly services, the church hosts the village food larder four days a week, as well as two coffee mornings for the elderly and a lively toddler group.  

But the fabric of the Grade I listed building is in dire need of help, often as a direct result of inappropriate methods – such as cement render and commonly sold oil-based paints - being used on past projects. 

“It has been patched up for decades,” said churchwarden Andy McCartney, as a primary school group toured the churchyard behind him. 

“If the church is to be sustainably maintained, we need the village to recognise that it’s as much their church as the worshipping congregation’s.  All our money comes from people giving to the church. If we want it to still be here in 100 years’ time, everyone needs to contribute in a small way.” 

Cement render has been used in several places throughout the church, resulting in cracks that allow moisture in and give rise to damp and mould.  

Recent fundraising has enabled contractors to be commissioned with a view to tackling this problem in the south-west gable, near the cafe area, which is currently marred by green growth. The render will be removed and repointed externally using breathable lime.  

Next on the list is the north elevation, which struggles with excess rainwater missing the under-sized and poorly-placed guttering. In the long-term, the roof lead needs attention as it is now old, brittle and cracks regularly, with many of the slates fragile and insecurely attached. 

Some cracks have been welded successfully as a temporary measure, reducing water ingress and enabling internal paint damage to be fixed. But the problem will need a more permanent solution, which is likely to cost hundreds of thousands of pounds. 

The church was recently granted £1,800 by the Cornwall Historic Churches Trust, and forthcoming events include Lanner Silver Band on April 6, the Roseland Shantymen in concert on May 10 and a tower open day on May 11. All proceeds will be diverted towards the church fund.