Pulborough’s most iconic landmark — the Grade I listed St Mary’s Church — is at the centre of a major new fundraising campaign aiming to secure its future for generations to come.

The Friends of Pulborough Parish Church have launched Strength in Stone, Spirit in Community, a £1 million appeal to fund essential repairs and conservation of the church’s historic stonework. As the only Grade I listed building in Pulborough, St Mary’s carries a special responsibility: the Parochial Church Council, as trustees, must ensure its preservation just as countless generations have done before.

For centuries, St Mary’s has stood at the heart of parish life, witnessing baptisms, weddings, funerals, moments of solace and celebration, and serving as a place of welcome for all. It remains a living centre of community life — a role that makes its conservation not just a heritage duty, but a communal one.

According to the campaign website, £250,000 has already been raised. To mark the public launch of the appeal, the Friends will host a Community Boundary Walk and Celebration on Saturday 19 September 2026.

Residents, groups, and organisations from across the parish are invited to “Beat the Bounds” — walking sections of the parish boundary to show visible support for safeguarding this remarkable building. The day will conclude with a community celebration at St Mary’s, culminating in a sound-and-light show telling the story of the church and its unique place in village life.

Laura Batchelor, a leading member of the Friends of Pulborough Parish Church, said:

“For centuries, St. Mary’s has been the beating heart of community life. We must preserve it for future generations.”

To learn more, get involved, or make a donation, visit the Friends of Pulborough Parish Church