Historic building professionals from across England gathered at St Oswald's Askrigg in the Ripon area for a study day examining the conservation and repair of the church's nationally recognised tower project.
The event brought together architects, surveyors, conservation specialists, DAC and church representatives, craftspeople and funders to explore the research, decision-making and practical work behind the lime rendering of the church tower.
The tower project, which received the King of Prussia Gold Medal for Conservation and Repair in 2025, has attracted national attention for its innovative response to long-standing problems of water ingress and stone deterioration.
Speakers included Andrew Boyce of Donald Insall Associates, Alison Henry of Historic England, Professor Liz Laycock of Sheffield Hallam University, Matthew Maries of the National Churches Trust, and Master Mason Matthias Garn, whose team carried out the conservation work.
Presentations examined the historical evidence for lime-coated churches, the impact of wind-driven rain on exposed masonry, the scientific research underpinning the project, and the practical challenges of delivering major conservation works in a highly exposed location.
Delegates also heard how the project was funded through a combination of local fundraising and support from organisations including the National Churches Trust, Benefact Trust, The Wolfson Foundation, The Elm House Trust and other grant funders.
The day concluded with practical demonstrations and guided tours of the tower, allowing visitors to see first-hand the condition of the building after the conservation works.
St Oswald's hopes that sharing the lessons learned from the project will help other churches and historic buildings facing similar challenges from moisture ingress and increasingly severe weather conditions.