Haddenham Baptist Church is facing perhaps the greatest challenge in its recent history. The quinquennial inspection of the church highlighted real areas of concern, primarily in the state of the Witchert walls, a building material which is made up of mud, straw and water, and is peculiar to Haddenham, Cuddington and some of the surrounding villages.

The Hats and Boots Restoration Appeal small fundraising team of volunteers are taking a break during August after an incredibly busy year. We’d like to take this opportunity to share an update of what we have achieved since launching the Appeal 20 months ago to save and restore Haddenham Baptist Church.

An incredible £44,000 has been raised locally from community events and donations from individuals. THANK YOU to everyone who has supported us. Our regular fundraising programme will continue until the end of 2024, after which we plan to apply for grants and to reduce the number of events we organise ourselves.

Haddenham Baptist Church has appointed a Surveyor, who visited the building and took samples of Witchert to analyse. A measured survey has taken place, plus a visit from a structural engineer. We’re awaiting the Surveyor’s report, which will give us a better idea of the work that needs to be carried out, in order of priority and potential costings. We will then need to go out to tender, and as building costs have increased they will be considerable. Some of our funds have inevitably already been used to pay for these reports.

In the meantime, there are loads of exciting events to look forward to during the Autumn and Winter. Have a look at the list below. You can find out more and book tickets now on: https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/hbc-hat-boots-restoration

We have been overwhelmed and hugely encouraged by the support received within the village and we hope to see many of you again at our future events.