St. Mary's Spire Appeal
Stu's spire climb is very soon...
Help us protect a piece of Billingshurst history
Rising above the village skyline, the spire of St Mary’s Church has watched over Billingshurst for centuries. Visible across fields, lanes and rooftops, it is more than an architectural feature — it is a symbol of continuity, faith and community life.
A church has stood on this site since at least the 12th century, and within the tower hangs a ring of eight bells, whose sound marks celebration and remembrance across the parish. St Mary’s is also a Grade I listed building, recognised nationally for its historic importance. Caring for it is a privilege - and a responsibility shared across generations.
The spire is clad in thousands of wooden shingles (cedarwood tiles) that protect the structure from wind and weather. Over time, some shingles have failed through age and exposure, and they now need replacing. This appeal continues the centuries-old tradition of stewardship: ordinary people ensuring that this extraordinary landmark remains safe and weatherproof for the future.
Support the Spire Appeal
Stuart at the base of the spire; he’ll be climbing using the steeplejacks’ access ladder.
In the weeks following Easter, weather permitting, Stu, one of St Mary’s Churchwardens, will quite literally be supporting the Spire Appeal from above by climbing the church spire using the ladder installed by the steeplejacks for their restoration work.
The climb highlights both the height of the spire and the scale of the work required to maintain this much-loved village landmark. It is Stuart’s way of drawing attention to the importance of replacing the ageing wooden shingles that protect the church from the elements.
If you would like to sponsor Stuart’s climb, you can do so via the JustGiving link below. Every donation, large or small, will help fund the continued maintenance of the spire and ensure that St Mary’s continues to stand proudly over Billingshurst for generations to come.
Thank you.
However you choose to support the appeal - sponsoring the spire climb, making a donation, or simply spreading the word - thank you. Your kindness helps preserve a familiar landmark and a place where so many memories have been made: weddings, baptisms, funerals, festivals, music, prayer, and quiet moments of reflection.
If you’d like to follow progress, please check back — we’ll be sharing updates as the work and fundraising continue.