400-year-old stones to be preserved
Historic 400-year-old ledger stones at Bury Parish Church are set to be preserved.
The stones, which date back to the 1600s, form the footpath leading to the main entrance of the Grade I listed building.
However, due to age, weather, and foot traffic, they have become damaged, causing concern for both historians and visitors.
The project to preserve and re-site the stones within the church grounds has been funded by The National Lottery Heritage Fund, Bury Council, and the church.
Due to age, weather, and foot traffic, the stones have become damaged (Image: Supplied)
Rev Julian Heaton, rector of Bury, said: "These ledger stones are wonderful, inscribed stone slabs laid in the ground that commemorate burial places.
"We’re thrilled that we can begin our project to not only save the stones but also to share more information about this key part of Bury’s heritage much more widely with our community."
The project will also involve working with local schools and residents to research and document the names on the stones for a permanent record.
As well as restoring the ledger stones, the project will see repairs to the stone steps and walls within the church grounds, improved drainage, a new mounting for the sundial, and planting in the church gardens.
Access to the church site will be improved.
Diana Hampson from Bury Parish Church said: "The cracks and breakage in the surface have been a great concern for both historians and visitors who have struggled to access the church.
"The church offers a fantastic range of activities and facilities for people of all ages from across Bury and beyond, and we need to ensure that everyone can reach and explore the church site."
There are also plans to introduce new historical and environmental interpretation panels, providing visitors with information about the site's rich history.
Work is set to begin on site in October 2025.
For more information, contact Martin Proffitt at Proffitts (CIC) on 07989928038 or email martin.proffitt@proffittscic.com.
