Lincolnshire’s famous ‘wonky’ church faces closure without urgent repairs

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10 Jun 2026 • 11:04 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

Lincolnshire’s famous ‘wonky’ church faces closure without urgent repairs

  • St James’ Church in Dry Doddington, Lincolnshire, which has a tower that leans more dramatically than Italy’s Leaning Tower of Pisa, faces potential closure due to severe structural issues.
  • The Grade II listed building's interior is plagued by dangerous flooring, woodworm, and cracking walls, exacerbated by the tilt of its tower.
  • Parishioners are actively campaigning to raise an estimated £150,000 needed for urgent repairs to prevent the historic church from being permanently shut down.
  • The church's current unsafe condition, featuring trip hazards and unstable areas, severely limits its use, raising concerns about its future role as a community venue for weddings and funerals.
  • A grant application has been submitted to the National Lottery Heritage Fund, and an online fundraising page has already secured over £6,500 towards restoration costs.

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