Ref. 25890-96CHRIST Church's spire may have to be covered in scaffolding for six months if planned repairs go ahead next year.

Architects are currently studying the results of a special photo survey, carried out in March, which looks at the state of the stonework of the 150-year-old spire.

The survey involved the use of a special camera taking close-up photographs of the stonework, allowing experts to see how bad the stonework really is.

Years of harsh weather and pollution have taken their toll on the roof and stonework of what is considered to be one of the town's most important landmarks.

David Vowles, a member of the spire sub-committee of the parochial church council, said he hoped work would begin either at the end of this year or in early 2005.

He said: "The architect is now looking through the results of the survey so that he can look at what work needs to be done.

"We can then get builders' estimates and put the work to tenders.

"We have been told that the work will probably take about six months and, to get the right people may take a similar amount of time, so we are looking at the back end of 2004 and the beginning of 2005."

Years of natural erosion have worn away the church's stone-work

Much of it will need re-pointing by stonemasons, while the heavy louvres, which are used to control the sound from the bells will probably be completely removed and replaced.

There had been concerns that they had been falling apart and so, for safety, they were covered by green netting to stop fragments from falling to the floor.

The Rev Simon Stevenette, the vicar of Christ Church, said he was keen to see the work go ahead as soon as possible.

He said: "We are still waiting to hear the results of the photo survey. But I am very keen that once all estimates have been collected that we begin work as soon as possible."

Fundraising for the Skyline Appeal to pay for the work continues. In July as part of the Old Town Festival the church will be holding a floral display.

The appeal was launched in 2001 with the aim of raising around £1.5 million to carry out all the repair work required on the church.

To find out more, visit www.christchurchswindon.co.uk

Anthony Osborne