The Churches Conservation Trust reports that the historic Norman church of St Nicholas’ in Uphill, Somerset, has become the latest victim of vandalism, leaving the local community both saddened and outraged.
Churches Conservation Trust writes:
On the morning of Sunday, 3 August, members of the Friends of St Nicholas’ arrived to open the church for visitors, only to be met with a devastating scene. The combination lock had been forcibly removed, the key lock rendered unusable due to severe tampering, and a treasured window—along with its protective grating—stolen. Following the report of the incident by a local resident, the Churches Conservation Trust (CCT) acted swiftly to secure the site. Emergency measures have been put in place, and CCT is already working with a specialist contractor to carry out urgent repairs. The initial estimate for the damage stands at £1,200.
Philippa Wood, Local Community Officer at CCT, commented: ‘St Nicholas’ Church, sitting in glorious isolation above the village of Uphill, is a key landmark for church crawlers, golfers and sailors alike. Opened and cared for by volunteers, it recently saw enormous public support for a project to restore the bells and bell ropes, now rung regularly by visiting bands. This senseless crime, targeting a key local landmark and a place of beauty, history and peace, has come as a great shock to both the Churches Conservation Trust and the local community.’
Perched alone on a hill above the former Roman port of Axium, St Nicholas’ Church is a striking, partially ruined Norman building. Known for its grimacing gargoyles, ancient sundials, and commanding views over the marshes and the Bristol Channel, it draws visitors from near and far. Sadly, this act of vandalism has left a lasting scar, diverting vital funds away from ongoing conservation efforts needed elsewhere across CCT’s estate. CCT is now appealing for public support to help cover the cost of repairs and ongoing maintenance for this church, ensuring it remains at the heart of its community. Every donation, large or small, will make a meaningful difference in conserving this cherished site.
