A NEW book exploring the history and landscape of Timsbury is being launched to mark 200 years since St Mary’s Church was rebuilt in the Gothic style.

Villager Larry Cunningham will launch the book with a talk in the church on Friday, January 16 highlighting key people, places and stories from his research. The book, People, Places and Things Associated with the History and Landscape of Timsbury, incorporates material from this and his two previous talks and has been produced to help raise funds for the maintenance and repair of St Mary’s Church.

Martin Blewett, the rector, said: “A church has existed in Timsbury for about a thousand years, but we’re celebrating the anniversary of its transformation into the church we’re familiar with today.”

An older church on the site had fallen into serious disrepair by the 1820s and was subsequently pulled down and rebuilt in the Gothic style between 1826 and 1832. The rebuilt church features an embattled west tower, an aisled nave, a chancel, and north and south chancels, reflecting the Gothic Revival style popular at the time.

Larry, a co-author of the series of books of local walks, said: “There is so much that is fascinating in the history of the village beyond its mining heritage that I’m delighted to be able to share snippets with others in the talks and the book.”

Martin, said: “Were grateful to Larry for agreeing to give a further talk and to produce the book. All the proceeds of sales will help with the cost of preserving St Mary’s for future generations. Keep an eye open for other events celebrating the bicentenary.”

The book will be available from Health & More and The Library in Timsbury, with proceeds supporting the church’s upkeep.