Churchwarden tells of almighty bang as lightning hits church in Sutton-on-Sea
MEMBERS of a church that set alight after being struck by lightning yesterday have spoken of their devastation.
As reported on www.thisisgrimsby.co.uk, the roof of the Methodist Church in Station Road, Sutton-on-Sea, was struck by lightning at 3.30pm, starting a fire in the 100-year-old building.
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FIRE DAMAGE: Firefighters battle to save the Methodist Church in Station Road, Sutton-on-Sea, which was struck by lightning yesterday. Picture: Charley Streather
Firefighters from Louth, North Somercotes, Alford and Mablethorpe battled the blaze for hours and black smoke billowed from the roof over a crowd of onlookers.
The fire has left church steward Margaret Shenton devastated, not just because of her love for the building, but also because its eight-week programme of summer concerts had only just begun – and now they do not know if they will go ahead.
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She said: "It is so very sad. I heard a big bang and I thought something had smashed through my kitchen window. I was ready to duck. I expect it has done a lot of damage.
"It is such a beautiful church and we have a regular congregation of 70, as well as a lot of visitors during the summer holiday season.
"I am terribly upset."
The church is well maintained, with a new carpeting, oak pews and a grand piano that is just two years old – all of which could now be damaged.
Mrs Shenton said: "People love the church. A lot of holidaymakers come here, we have got a good reputation.
"I don't know what to hope for anymore, there is no telling what damage will have been done."
The first summer concert was held on Monday and saw the Alford Silver Band perform.
Another silver band would have followed this Monday and then two choirs and a couple of solo singers.
Mrs Shenton said: "A lot of older people like coming to the church. It is peaceful and quiet, well at least it was before today."
Firefighters were still battling the flames at the time of going to press.
Can you help?
Can you offer the church a venue for their concerts? Contact the Grimsby Telegraph newsroom, on 01472 372236.
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