Saint Mary’s is the ancient parish church of Willesden. A place of worship and community has stood on this site since 938AD. Over its eleven hundred year history, St Mary’s has variously served as a hospital, a place of pilgrimage for rich and poor, a soup kitchen for the homeless and, of course, as a living expression of Christian faith and service.

Despite having witnessed so much change and upheaval and having remained supportive to one of the most deprived and multi-cultural communities in the country, in recent months St Mary’s has fallen victim to the criminal and systematic stripping of its lead and other metals.

Only last year we had just finished renewing the roof at a cost of £120,000, with help from English Heritage and other grant awarding bodies, and to raise the substantial amount of money required to match their generosity. As a result, we are not eligible for further funding. Because of the epidemic of lead and metal theft nationwide, insurance companies have imposed a very low ceiling on claims. We are therefore appealing for assistance in repairing and maintaining one of Brent’s oldest and landmark buildings.

The damage has been so great that the congregation is faced with the task of raising up to £50,000 in order to repair this grade 2 listed building. Any financial contribution would be of enormous help, or it may be that you are able to donate goods that we could use in our fundraising efforts. All contributions will be acknowledged in a fitting way on completion of the appeal.

The Willesden and Brent Times report of the incident can be viewed here

Additional pictures of the damage can be seen below.