Discover the Devon Archaeological Society’s detailed report on the reconstruction of St John’s Church spire and roof after the devastating 1990 storm damage.
This transcribed manuscript, compiled by John Smale Short, provides a detailed historical record of Hatherleigh, including St John’s Church from the 16th to 19th centuries, highlighting fascinating details and alterations made to St John’s Church during the 19th century.
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.