The 80 second animation, which you can watch below, highlights why churches are some of the nation’s best loved buildings.
It also shows some of the dangers facing church buildings, including leaking roofs, crumbling stonework and the dreaded Deathwatch Beetle, Xestobium rufovillosum.
You can share the video with other people by sending them this link https://vimeo.com/340385102
The changing climate has led to a upturn in pest infestations and insect and fungal pests such as the Deathwatch Beetle have become more active, according to historic building experts. The Deathwatch Beetle is a particular problem because it bores into old timbers and eats the wood. A serious recent infestation has affected Lincoln Cathedral.
Become a Friend and help the UK's churches
In the film Michael Palin says that people who want to save historic churches for the future can support the work of the National Churches Trust by joining its Friends scheme.
After the launch of the animation, in June and July 2019, 50 people became Friends of the Trust and received a special joining gift of English Parish Churches and Chapels, a book of photographs by Dr Matthew Byrne, specially signed by Michael Palin.
You can become a Friend of the National Churches Trust online or for further information, please call 020 7222 0605
Michael Palin said:
“The National Churches Trust does so much to help keep the UK’s church buildings open and in good repair.”
“The animation shows just how important churches are to our history and heritage and also to local communities. With post offices, shops and even pubs closing, churches are often the only community building left in many parts of the country.”
“The National Churches Trust is a great charity to support. Friends get a chance to visit some of the UK’s most fascinating churches and learn about their history and heritage. Even more importantly, they help the Trust safeguard more historic churches for the future.”
Claire Walker, CEO of the National Churches Trust said:
"The National Churches Trust supports churches throughout the UK by providing grants for urgent repairs and community facilities. In 2018, it gave 228 grants to support projects around the UK. Repair demand for its grants in 2018 rose by 24% compared to 2017."
"The Trust receives no regular funding from Government or church authorities and its work is only possible through the support of its Friends, donors and other trusts and foundations."
“ We are delighted that Michael Palin is supporting the National Churches Trust with the voiceover for a new animated film about our work.”
“This animation will allow more people to find out about our work. I hope it will also bring us new Friends and supporters so that together we can ensure that the UK’s churches and chapels continue to be at the heart of our national heritage for many, many years to come.”