Navigating pinnacles, peregrines, policies and people – the Ecclesiastical way

Navigating pinnacles, peregrines, policies and people – the Ecclesiastical way

Half a ton of stonework falling more than 30 meters – just as well Worcester Cathedral was properly insured. Severe winds from Storm Arwen had torn away part of a pinnacle from the cathedral tower.

‘Our immediate priority was to ensure the safety of the building and put temporary measures in place to protect the building from further damage,’ said Annaleise Jones of CRE 24 exhibitors Ecclesiastical Insurance.

Preserving the cathedral’s history was of utmost importance during the restoration process.  Extensive discussions with structural engineers led to the construction of a permanent steel frame within the roof void to support the vaulted stone ceiling. Metal hangers and a flat metal plate reinforced the masonry, ensuring structural integrity.

Around 1,500 organ pipes, contaminated with dust and debris, were carefully extracted and cleaned off-site. A digital organ was sourced for continuity of services. Once repairs were completed, the organ pipes were reinstalled.

During restoration, peregrine falcons nested on the cathedral spire. The restoration of the pinnacle was put on hold until the chicks had fully fledged. A live webcam allowed people to witness the growth of Peggy, Peter, Penguin, Penelope, Percie – and Mr Lazy.

Carving of the new pinnacle began while waiting for the chicks to fledge. The damaged pinnacle was replaced with a new one crafted by the cathedral’s stonemasons. Preservation of the cathedral’s architectural heritage was ensured using red sandstone sourced from Hollington quarry in Staffordshire.

Interim Dean, Canon Stephen Edwards of Worcester Cathedral commented: ‘We are extremely grateful to Ecclesiastical for their support from the moment the news broke and all the way through the restoration journey. They navigated peregrines, programming, policies and people with perfection!’

Ecclesiastical will give four talks at CRE 24:

Unlocking the power of support by Helen Richards (2pm, Wed 9 Oct)
Open churches: balancing safety and security by Heather Ford (3.30pm, Wed 9 Oct)
Greening your mission by Helen Gray and Chris Pitt (11am, Thu 10 Oct)
Church insurance support made easy by Heather Ford (1.30pm, Thu 10 Oct)

• Ecclesiastical are on stand A1 at CRE 24

CRE 2025

To book a stand at CRE 25, contact:
James Batterbee
T: 0161 240 4500
E: james@creonline.co.uk