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Jul 17 • 6 tweets • 2 min read
The scorching weather in much of the UK right now reminds us of one effect of a similar heatwave in 2018:
At old St Matthew's, Lightcliffe, volunteers researching the churchyard identified several unmarked burials; due to drought conditions they showed up clearly in drone footage
Although very dry weather can be a short-term boon to archaeologists, hot and dry conditions can be detrimental to historic buildings and to archaeological sites.
For example, extreme temperature fluctuations can cause structural instability, and drought can lead to soil shrinkage, which can cause subsidence.
If you're affected by the hot weather this week, please stay safe and cool. Hopefully some rain is on its way.
p.s. If you enjoy #archaeology, check out the @archaeologyuk #FestivalOfArchaeology. Events over the next 2 weeks include lots of historic church-related talks and activities — from a photogrammetry workshop to guided walks, exhibitions and online talks. archaeologyuk.org/festival.html
P.p.s. Learn about the burials in St Matthew’s churchyard at the fantastic website of The Friends of St Matthew’s Churchyard, Lightcliffe

lightcliffechurchyard.org.uk

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Jul 15
The chapel of ease at Thornton-le-Beans in North Yorkshire is a small building of coursed stone that was largely rebuilt in 1770.

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Jun 30
From the late 18th century, the revival of classical art and architecture and burgeoning interest in archaeology made the urn a ubiquitous image on gravestones and monuments.

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Jun 25
Today’s the day! The big reveal!
The redecoration at St Mary’s, Long Crichel is complete, and this afternoon, the village will gather at the church for a celebration.
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Jun 23
It's such a thrill when churches reveal a long lost part of their past. And recently, St Mary's in Mundon did just that.

Since December, we've been underpinning this Essex church which has been suffering from structural movement for centuries.

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Jun 9
How about a Transformation Thursday?

In less than a century, St Denis's, East Hatley went from restoration to ruin. In 1874, this medieval Cambrigdeshire church was restored by William Butterfield. It was abandoned in 1961 when repair costs couldn't be met.

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Jun 5
Our churches have connections to some of Britain's most famous and notorious monarchs.

At St Jerome's, Llangwm Uchaf, Monmouthshire, a stained glass window dates from around the time of Prince Arthur's marriage to Catherine of Aragon in 1501.

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In 1509 Catherine remarried to his brother, the newly crowned King Henry VIII.

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