The rector of Guisborough’s ancient St Nicholas Church, Revd Alison Phillipson, plans to make a splash in the annual Boxing Day Dip in the North Sea at Redcar in an effort to raise crucial repair funds.

The tower of the church, built in the 15th Century, was very probably constructed with stone from the 11th Century Priory, which now lies in ruins next door.

Sections of the sandstone walls are crumbling on all sides of the tower, and will require replacement. Closer examination shows that some of the stones had been incorrectly installed many years ago and much pointing is required, with leadwork to be replaced.

Darlington and Stockton Times: Rector of Guisborough Revd Alison Phillipson

Some of the pointing used previously was the wrong filling, which was not porous like the traditional lime, causing damp. Stonemasons have advised that repairs will cost in the region of £160,000. The church is seeking grant aid anywhere and everywhere to help, but the church needs to raise a significant amount itself.

Church building group manager, Graham Walker said: “The Church Tower is starting to decay. It’s been up since the 14th/15th Century and it’s starting to show its age. There is a lot of decaying stonework, which can pose a danger if it falls on people. That’s one reason why it’s so urgent. It’s a community building basically.

Darlington and Stockton Times: St Nicholas Church, Guisborough, where the church tower is decaying

"We’ve just done the inside (of the church) to facilitate its use. It’s one of the biggest available spaces in Guisborough, which we hire out for concerts. The Choral Society held its concert here recently.”

Revd Alison will be participating in the annual Boxing Day Dip at Redcar in the hope of securing sponsorship to raise money for the repairs. Geoffrey Hill from St Nicholas Church, who is fundraising for the tower appeal, said: “The Rector will be doing the dip in the hope of getting sponsorship for this madness! We must add that she absolutely hates cold water, even in a pool in warmer climes. So please do support and make this torture worth it.”

He added: “We are very well aware sadly of the cost-of-living crisis that is hitting many folks hard but remember ‘every little helps.’  We must ensure that the Parish Church at the very heart of this community is here for generations to come – the time is now."

Sponsorship forms are available from the church or donations can be made using the JustGiving page https://www.justgiving.com/page/geoffrey-hill-1701956382839?.