WORK at Odiham’s All Saints’ Church has thrown up a “gigantic shock”.

The work being undertaken at the church is adapting the 1,000-year-old building to the needs of an ageing society by improving access, providing more comfortable seating, and installing better and more efficient heating.

But with work well under way, the removal of the former pew platform areas which were in danger of disintegrating because of insect infestation has thrown up a shocking surprise for construction workers and archaeologists.

Following the removal of the floors, which were much less sound than anticipated, they found that the base of the pillars which support the arches and the roof have been crumbling away at their foundations under the floor.

Structural engineers, along with an architect, archaeologist and contractors, are now working together to reinforce the areas to ensure the structural stability of the church, work which is urgently needed.

Reverend Alison Brown said: “We are indeed fortunate the friends of All Saints are helping fund much of the work.

“All Saints Church is about the people of this community and we are preparing our beautiful building to continue its mission and purpose of the last thousand years to glorify God and be a blessing to this community.

“We need help from our community to support the purchase of new and beautiful oak chairs and for the much needed restoration work.”

Once completed, All Saints hopes to have a building with new heating and flexibility for a “wonderful new use of the space within a church”.