THERE are fears this week that an investigation into the condition of the famous landmark tower of St Peter's Church, Newn-ham, may reveal the need for major restoration.
"Basically, it is beginning to crumble. There are cracks and gaps in the stonework and we have to face up to the reality that repairs could cost tens of thousands of pounds," Andy Vivian, chairman of the recently formed Tower Restoration Committee told the Review.
An initial examination has pointed experts towards considering that the fault may be with the tower's foundations.
A series of holes were dug around the base of the tower on Monday which it was hoped would reveal the cause of the problem.
"A report is anticipated by the end of the year. Then we will know the full extent of the problem," said Mr Vivian.
There is no evidence of slippage – a previous Newnham church ended up in the nearby River Severn – and the experts will consider options such as "heave" caused by tree roots.
The tower has withstood fire and tempests.
On a rock commanding one of the finest views of the Severn in Gloucestershire, the tower is much older than the church. When St Peter's was rebuilt in 1874 the tower was retained.
Though the tower was damaged when the church was burnt down in the great fire of 1881, again it was decided that the tower should remain.
"The tower is constructed of Forest stone and was obviously stressed by the fire. What we have now is a well built Victorian church and a much older tower which is basically beginning to crumble," said Mr Vivian.
Expert architect Ian Stainburn is leading the investigation while Mr Vivian heads a team of three members of the Parochial Church Council. Joining him are the vicar, the Rev John Seaman and churchwarden Barbara Griffith together with church treasurer Ann Lloyd. Other assistance is coming from Mike Penny, Keith Farr and David Trapnell.