HISTORY repeating itself?

A picture dated June 14, 1905, shows that church restoration is not just a modern day phenomenon.

Despite being just 50 years old in 1905, St Stephen's Church is seen here undergoing repairs to the top of its spire.

The church was built from porous Worcestershire sandstone, a material which needs constant attention due to its susceptibility to weather and pollution.

Closer inspection of the old photograph shows the precarious nature of being a steeplejack in those days.

Instead of sturdy scaffolding and a lift, seen around the spire today, a series of flimsy looking ladders lead to the top.

Another photograph shows repair work taking place in the late 1930s. Seen at the very top of the spire is Gerry Cottrill.

St Stephen's Church held its first service in July 1855 although at that time, the spire was yet to be completed.

The most recent project to save it is the most ambitious so far.

The crumbling stonework is so bad at the top, the tip may need to be replaced entirely.

Nearly 10 years of fund-raising should see the spire fully restored by the end of the year.

And with any luck, the town's most famous landmark will be preserved for many more decades to come.

Well worth it for a mere £300,000.