Goosnargh ‘barn church’ to see urgent work carried out and asbestos roof replaced

Work is underway at the church. Pic: Michael Bryan.

A rural ‘barn church’ in between Goosnargh and Longridge has received a much needed funding boost to literally stop the roof from falling in.

Slates are falling off the Grade II listed St Francis Hill Chapel, Horns Lane, Goosnargh, and the asbestos ceiling is crumbling, raining down dust and asbestos onto the pews. New cracks are appearing all the time.

However, a £5,194 National Churches Trust Grant will help to pay for urgent repairs to the chapel, completing the funds needed for this vital project.

Michael Bryan, property group chair at St Francis Hill Chapel, said: “St Francis, Hill Chapel is a hidden historic gem in the Lancashire countryside. It is a fine example of a ‘barn’ style chapel bult during penal times to avoid the attention of those opposed to Catholicism.

“Unfortunately, the building is now in need of urgent restoration and the grant we have been offered by the National Churches Trust will go a long way in helping us to carry out the essential repairs that are needed.”

“Once the work is completed the building will once again be used regularly for worship, education and community services. A national church asset will be restored for present and future generations to enjoy. The whole parish community is extremely grateful for the support offered by the National Churches Trust.”

The chapel has huge historical significance and it was built at a time when the penal laws in England imposed severe restrictions on Catholics, limiting their ability to meet and worship together.

However, the Lancashire Catholics were determined to continue to practise. In the early 18th century, the Franciscan Order considered it to be safe to build a small chapel two miles outside the village of Goosnargh on high ground known as The Hill.

The chapel was designed to resemble a barn and was sited well away from main community. It was completed in 1755.

The asbestos ceiling will be removed and replaced. The failing roof will also be fixed.

Claire Walker, chief executive of the National Churches Trust, added:   “The original shortfall the church had was £25,000. But we were able to tell them about the Listed Places of Worship Grants Scheme, ran by the UK Government, which enables the chapel to claim back VAT on the repairs work. This saves them 20 per cent – one fifth of their costs.

“Sadly, this vital scheme is set to run out in March 2025, meaning that listed places of worship across the UK will lose this crucial support to help keep their building open and in good repair. The UK Government must renew this scheme – and make it permanent – so that precious heritage and community support will not be lost.”

During the First World War, nine parishioners were killed in active service and two others gave their lives during World War Two. The chapel has two war memorials, one built in 1921, from funds donated by parishioners and a second internal plaque installed in 2018.

The church still serves a wide rural community and welcomes a range of visitors.

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