Dorset: 12th century church flooded

St Mary the Virgin, Charminster

A 12th century church in Dorset is one of the casualties of the severe flooding which has hit many parts of the country.

The parish church of St Mary the Virgin, in the village of Charminster which is built over the River Cerne, together with six houses nearby, has been badly affected by the stormy weather and rising floodwaters, local BBC Radio has reported.

The Grade One listed church has massive Norman arches dividing the aisles from the nave, stone gargoyles and other carvings, a 15th century bell tower and a number of historic monuments to local families. The full extent of the damage has not yet been assessed. Local residents and emergency services pitched in with the mopping up operations over the weekend. Many calling for the replacement of an ancient bridge which they say has contributed to the flooding.

Church wardens estimate the church will be closed for at least a month to allow water to drain away and for the floors to dry out. Sunday services were cancelled at the church. They will be held in the village hall until St Mary's reopens.