800th anniversary medieval fundraiser could help save church

A church in East Yorkshire is hosting a series of events to mark its 800th anniversary and to raise funds for its restoration.

St Mary's Church in Hook, near Goole, which has served its community since 1225, is hosting events including jousting, battle re-enactments, medieval music and living history displays.

The celebrations will include a full weekend of events on 16-18 May, highlighting the way the church has contributed to so many lives over the centuries.

St Mary's vicar, the Reverend Philip Ball, said that without restoration work, there was a risk of losing "this beautiful building" within a generation.

"It is the privilege of the people of the village of Hook, particularly those with close involvement to the church, to be doing this," Mr Ball said.

He said it was not known exactly when in 1225 the building was completed, adding that this provided an opportunity to celebrate throughout the year.

"We thought, let's use this opportunity to set this place up for another 100 years of service to this community."

Mr Ball said by modernising the facilities, it was hoped that more people and organisations could make use of the space.

A fundraising campaign to restore the building was launched in 2018, with work to install a disabled toilet and dinette due to be completed in time for the anniversary celebrations.

Plans are also in place for external repairs, including replacing the roof, underpinning, stones and window repairs.

The church is listed on Historic England's Heritage at Risk register.

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