About Ombersley Spire and Church Appeal (OSCA)
OSCA (Ombersley Spire and Church Appeal) was formed in 1991 to handle the fabric restoration needs of St Andrew’s Church in Ombersley, Worcestershire. It was subsequently registered as a separate charity.
Thomas Rickman’s unusual “Strawberry Hill Gothic” design is a treasure, but both as to design and size it imposes rather special demands on the parish. The church was completed in 1829. Since 1991 OSCA has carried out a series of major projects to keep the church wind- and water-tight. The work has been required (by Diocesan authorities amongst others) to be carried out in keeping with the original design. OSCA has been involved in successfully raising funds through events and, in conjunction with St Andrew’s PCC, securing grants from a wide variety of local and national trusts.
These include making the spire stonework safe (1993/94), re-slating the roof (1996), restoration of the nave windows (2001 – 2004), making the tower stonework safe and replacing pinnacles (2011/12).
The current work of restoring the East window, vestry and lobby windows together with the clerestory windows will return the building to being both wind- and water-tight.
Future projects include making the church and its facilities physically accessible in line with modern standards and expectations.
james@jamstorks.com
Ombersley Spire and Church Appeal (OSCA) Registered charity number 1131675
