The violent gale which passed over Brindlemere on Monday night has left its mark upon the oldest of our holy places. The roof of the chancel at St. Ethelburga's Chapel was stripped of a considerable portion of its lead and slates, and the wind drove rain through the breach upon the organ loft, where the pipes and workings have suffered from the wet. The full extent of the mischief cannot yet be known, but the fabric is in want of speedy repair, and it is hoped the congregation will act with their accustomed promptness.
The storm, which came on with sudden fury from the north-east, spent much of its force during the night, and by dawn had so far abated as to allow the sexton to make his rounds. The damage to the chancel roof is the most serious reported in the parish, though it is understood that several sheds and outbuildings about the town have also felt the force of the wind. The churchwardens are expected to meet within the week to consider the necessary works.