Norfolk village church project celebrates funding success

But the crumbling structure of St Peter church in Forncett, near Long Stratton, means it is facing an uncertain future and was even forced to temporarily close.

Now, however, the team hoping to revive the building's fortunes can celebrate thanks to a massive financial boost. 

An application to the National Lottery Heritage Fund to support a new project has been successful, with a grant of £33,274 secured.

The money represents approximately 70pc of the total expenditure of £47,740 for the latest stage of a broader scheme called Forncett – a Village of Stories: The Restoration of St Peter’s Church.

St Peter's Church in Forncett - Newsquest Library (Image: Newsquest)

A spokesman said: “This wonderful news means that in 2023 we will be able to undertake the next stage of development work. 

“This will allow for more detailed evaluation of the requirements to remove the church from the Heritage at Risk Register and as a result to make the building watertight, safe and secure." 

READ MORE: Norfolk tank museum set to double in size with new cafe

READ MORE: Historic England lists Norfolk and Suffolk heritage at risk

Overall, the total cost of the work needed to restore the church is expected to be in the region of £700,000 and will take three years to complete.

This includes repairs to the roof, flint and stonework of walls, and guttering and drainage. 

Architect plans for St Peter's Church at Forncett - Picture: Architect, Ruth Blackman (Image: Architect, Ruth Blackman)

The next big milestone involves applying to the Heritage Fund for a further grant of around £526,000.  

The work is needed to address years of structural problems which have plagued the building. 

Blighted by on-going issues, the church was forced to close for four months last year, reopening its doors in October 2022.