Important Medieval Wall Paintings saved

St Leonard’s Church, Flamstead contains what are believed to be the most important medieval wall paintings in
Hertfordshire outside St Alban’s Abbey. The paintings, discovered in the 1930s, which
span some 600 years of history, were at risk of being lost due to the medieval roof failing
and water entering the church.

Faced with the terrible prospect of the church being closed completely, the village
community began a campaign to Save St Leonard’s. This culminated in a long term plan to
develop the church as a community hub and involve local people in promoting its shared
heritage. It led to a grant award of £642,500 funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund
(total project costs £1.13m) alongside the fundraising efforts of the village.

Thanks to these efforts, urgent roof repairs have been completed. The building is now safe
and saved, weatherproof and accessible. The rare wall paintings are drying out and more
artistic detail can be seen. Once this process is complete, specialist conservation work can
start, to protect them for visitors to enjoy for years to come.

The church team (PCC) and the Flamstead Heritage Project are now working on an exciting
programme of activities and events to tell the story of this remarkable church. The aim is to
bring its history and heritage to life through more social activities, learning opportunities and
community events, supported by volunteers and local people.

Revd Jo Burke, Vicar of Flamstead said….

‘St Leonard’s has been given a fresh start: we have been steadily building on this to
share our church as a building for everyone. We are delighted at the strong village
response, which we see both in the increasing use of the church for community
activities and special events, and in the growing worshipping community.’