St Mary de Haura on Historic

England’s ‘At Risk’

Throughout December 2022, St Mary de Haura resounded with festive seasonal music.

Many people who visit St Mary’s are immediately confused by its role as the parish church of New Shoreham. ‘New’? Looking up at the ancient Norman stonework, it’s easy to forget St Mary’s wasn’t the first church in the town. In fact, St Nicolas the parish church of ‘Old Shoreham’ claims an even more ancient pedigree.

Nonetheless, despite being the younger sibling, 900-year old St Mary de Haura is an architectural and historical gem. Although only a portion of the vast original building, built by the Norman baron, Philip de Braose, remains standing as the current church, it is an impressive building. Visitors may have noticed the unusual flying buttresses which support the chancel and aisles of the building – an unusual feature for a parish church. Further historic details including graffiti from the Civil War can be spotted. The church is committed to being every day so people can visit to enjoy the history as well as peace and tranquillity of our beautiful church.

Given its historic value, many people are surprised to learn that St Mary de Haura received no state or government funding. Neither does it receive any subsidy or support from the central Church of England.

Responsibility falls instead to the Vicar, Churchwardens and the small group of staff and volunteers who run the church on a daily basis. Yet maintaining the