A major stonework restoration project completed at Ivychurch
Restoration photos by Celia Heritage and architect George Esdaile
The Romney Marsh Historic Churches Trust has supported a major stonework restoration project at St George’s Church, Ivychurch, one of the largest and most significant conservation initiatives it has funded in recent years.
Essential masonry repairs were undertaken to make the church weatherproof for the future, including the careful replacement of the string course around parts of the building with stone that matches the historic fabric. Specialist workers repaired hood moulds, re-treated doors and replaced extensive areas of weathered stonework. Hidden structural issues such as deep cracks in two buttresses were uncovered and addressed. Work also included fixing water ingress in the south aisle and re-treating the external clerestory walls.
The Trust is also funding the restoration of the church’s 100-year-old clock, ensuring that this familiar and much-loved feature continues to mark time over the Marsh for generations to come.
The success of such projects depends not only on specialist contractors, but also on the dedication of local volunteers who support and care for the churches on a daily basis.
The completion of the stonework and clock restoration at Ivychurch will be marked by a series of special events in 2026, celebrating what can be achieved through the generosity of Trust members, donors and those who have chosen to leave legacy gifts - support that is vital in safeguarding this remarkable medieval church for the future.
