Following work on the east and west walls last year, cracks in the south wall are now being repaired. This is necessary to ensure that the existing building is stable before construction of the new Community Centre behind the church.

Cracks in the altar arch and corners of the south wall have been visible for some years. Investigation showed that water running under the church had washed away some of the foundations, causing settling. It is known that this end of the church was partially rebuilt following WWII bomb damage, and that section may in fact have better foundations than the other walls, resulting in a difference of movement and hence cracking.

The foundations will be strengthened as necessary and the brickwork rejoined at the cracks, following which it will be replastered.  Fortunately most of the cost is being covered by insurance.

Church members are encouraged to read the discussion paper Mapping a way forward - regrouping for mission produced by Rev John Hellyer (chairman of the Methodist Church South-east district). The paper considers recommendations from Methodist Conference about the structure and resourcing of the Church, in particular the way in which Circuits of local churches are organized. Comments on the issues raised can be fed back through the stewards.