A church in Standish has been added to Historic England’s at risk register as the organisation has today released its latest analysis of buildings at risk
Thirteen historic buildings and sites in the North West have been added to the Register because they are at risk of neglect, decay or inappropriate development.
The Church of St Wilfrid located in Standish, Wigan and listed as Grade I has been marked as at risk after it has suffered death watch beetle infestation that has affected its decorative timber ceilings.
This Grade I listed church, dating from the 1580s, represents a rare example of late 16th-century ecclesiastical architecture. The building is particularly significant for its innovative use of Tuscan columns in the nave and chancel arcades, believed to be the earliest application of this classical order in England.
The church features richly moulded roof beams throughout, with the nave displaying tie beams bearing armorial decorations and dates. Notable interior elements include a 17th-century communion rail and an elaborately carved pulpit from 1616.
The death watch beetles threaten the building’s historic timber features, which are integral to its significance. Urgent conservation measures will be required to preserve this exceptional example of Elizabethan church architecture for future generations.
