Dr Todd Gray of Exeter University talks about Devon’s ancient carved bench ends including the ones present in St John’s Church, Hatherleigh and their significance.
On the 25th of January 1990, a fierce storm brought the mediaeval spire crashing down through the roof of the central aisle, devastating the interior and leaving St John’s Church with the unwelcome title of the most damaged church in the country at that time. Yet, from this destruction arose a remarkable restoration. The following gallery shows images, press clippings and a video of the devastation caused and the resulting restoration project.