A church is thought to have stood on the site of St Mary’s since the 10th century, and the foundations of the original Norman church remain below the Lady Chapel. The current building dates from the mid-13th century with various modifications and extension since.

The Vestry and Sacristy were constructed as part of the 1914-15 extension and redevelopment of the building by Temple Moore. Like so many other churches, the roof leadwork was stolen some years ago, and subsequently re-finished in a bituminous felt. The felt roofing was a temporary material, and had reached the end of its serviceable life after various areas of water ingress.

The new terne-coated stainless steel roof finish, once patinated, will give a similar, albeit not identical, appearance to lead, but with a much lower value and risk of theft. The cementitious render to the exterior was also replaced with a new lime-based render and white limewash finish. This creates a more breathable structure that is less prone to damp problems.