AN event has been organised for Sunday June 8th to mark the 25th anniversary of the fire which came close to destroying the parish church of St Mary in Barnes.

The tragic fire happened on June 8th 1978. The Victorian and Edwardian extensions to the original building were burnt beyond repair although, thankfully, the medieval south and east walls and the Tudor tower (c.1485) survived.

Before the rebuilding took place to create the award-winning church building which is enjoyed today, a complete archaeological survey of the site was undertaken which identified buildings going back to the 12th century and this was fully recorded in drawings and photographs.

To mark the anniversary of the fire, Scott McCracken, who led the archaeological team, will be returning to St Mary's to give an illustrated lecture using much of the material which he collected at the time. This will be a fascinating account of the buildings and people of Barnes over nine centuries. The lecture will start at 8 pm and will be preceded by a conducted tour of the ancient buildings at 7.30 pm.

Tickets are £10 (concessions £8) available from 020 8876 6719 or at the door with all proceeds going to the preservation of the church.