History preserved again with the help of Dryseal

In August 2013, the beautiful 12^th Century Grade II* listed All Saints Church in Leamington Hastings, Warwickshire was visited during the night on two separate occasions. In the next few days it was found that the theft of about 40% of the 130m² of lead roof covering had taken place.

After installing a temporary waterproofing structure, the church took action by ringing Hambleside Danelaw about the Dryseal system. They had found out about the extensive Dryseal work done in Bromsgrove at the St John the Baptist church in 2012.

Dryseal Manager Andy Fell said “I was called by Brian Cooke from the church Fabric Committee. Brian was extremely annoyed about the theft, but fairly stoical about the fortunes of the church compared to other less fortunate ones. He expressed a keen interest in Dryseal and was sent some technical information along with photos of other church work. Within days, Approved Contractor Paul Lambert of Paul’s of Burbage had inspected the roof and quoted. The quotation was accepted in early 2014 and the Dryseal RibTec re-roofing work completed in April 2014”.

Sadly, the organ which was newly installed in June 2013, is situated in the South Aisle and stands directly below where the lead had been stolen from the roof. It was severely damaged as a result of the lead theft and had to be repaired at considerable expense to the church, as insurers would not provide adequate cover for the theft of metals from roofs. Now fully restored, the organ is being used once again. Church services and other activities can also now be held in the church this year without fear of further lead thefts and floods in the south aisle. This includes the series of annual classical concerts , now in its 43rd year which attracts widespread interest from the surrounding area. Details can be found at www.musicatleamingtonhastings.co.uk

Paul Lambert was extremely pleased with the finished roof “We installed the Dryseal system, complete with imitation rolls and roof void ventilation along the whole roof on both levels. The lead that was left behind by the thieves was sold to a scrap yard and paid directly back to the church. We are extremely happy about the job, the church were also very pleased with the finished roof and the time taken”.

Hambleside Danelaw are delighted to have been able to assist in preserving a part of English history with another memorable Dryseal project.