Dry rot attacks historic Burnley church (From Lancashire Telegraph)

Dry rot attacks historic Burnley church

10:08am Friday 27th May 2011 in Cliviger By Chris Gee, Reporter

THE discovery of extensive dry rot in one of Burnley’s oldest and most historic churches is likely to force its closure for at least three months.

The eastern side of St John the Divine, Cliviger, has been sealed off while work begins to assess the extent of the damage, with fears repairs could cost up to £130,000.

Scheduled services will now take place at Church House, next to Cliviger school.

But next month’s inauguration service for the Mayor of Burnley has been moved to sister church, St John the Evangelist in Worsthorne.

Reverend Keith Henshall, vicar of both churches, said: “After the dry rot discovery we had to make the decision to seal off the church.

“The situation is fast-moving, but my best guess is at least three months to do the remedial work.

“Scaffolding will be put up this weekend and it could be the whole roof will need to be replaced.”

Plans for improving internal and external lighting and the construction of toilet and kitchen facilities within the church have now been put on hold, with funds diverted to the essential repairs.

Rev Henshall also revealed that extraordinary measures would be needed to prevent lead theft during the repairs.

“We are going to have to alarm the scaffolding to prevent people going on the roof,” he said. “In the 18 months I’ve been here there has been at least four lead raids, causing extensive damage.”

Burnley Mayor, David Heginbotham said he was disappointed the service would not be held in Cliviger.

“I hear the problems aren’t insurmountable and once the work is done let’s hope it lasts for 200 years,” he said.

“We’re so lucky to have the sister church in Worsthorne for the service on June 12.”

St John the Divine dates back to the 16th century. The churchyard contains the graves of many historically prominent Burnley people such as Lieutenant-General James Yorke Scarlett and Sir John Hardy Thursby.