A GRADE two listed building instrumental in the story of the Tolpuddle Martyrs has been saved by local volunteers and skilled craftspeople.

After 25 years on the Heritage at Risk Register, the Tolpuddle Old Chapel, dating back to 1818, has reopened following a nine-year regeneration project.

It has also been removed from the 'at risk' register.

The Tolpuddle Old Chapel Trust (TOCT) acquired the building in 2015 and began planning its repair and reuse.

Supported by grants from The National Lottery Heritage Fund and Historic England, work began in November 2021.

Dorset Echo: The grade two listed building had been on Historic England's at risk register list since 1998 The grade two listed building had been on Historic England's at risk register list since 1998 (Image: Historic England)

The building is known for its importance in the story of the Tolpuddle Martyrs, a group of six leaders of a farming union arrested and sentenced to seven years’ transportation for taking an oath of secrecy.

Professor Philip Martin, chairman of TOCT, said: “The Old Chapel is the first significant material trace of four of the Tolpuddle Martyrs and speaks of the importance of their determination, independence and faith. George Loveless and Thomas Standfield were both trustees of the original building, and Loveless was a lay preacher here.”

“The Old Chapel reflects the lives and hardships of the people who built it, and their desire for change. We’re delighted to have secured this important part of our local and national story.”

It was built in 1818 and used for worship by four of the six men who were to become famous as the Tolpuddle Martyrs: George Loveless, James Loveless, John Standfield, and Thomas Standfield.

Dorset Echo: The chaple has been open to the public since the summer of 2023 but has only now be removed from the at risk listThe chaple has been open to the public since the summer of 2023 but has only now be removed from the at risk list (Image: Historic England)

Specialist historic building architects and contractors were both involved in carrying out careful repairs, informed by research and analysis of the building.

The fragile cob walls were repaired with earth from the chapel site and a historic chalk pit a mile away.

A new extension, which will be used for education and other activities, completes the restoration.

Sarah Ball, architect at Historic England, said: “Although a small building, the repair of the Old Chapel has been a huge project. An enormous amount of collaboration and skill was needed at every stage to deal with its challenges and complexities.

"Our technical advice and grants to the Trust, along with their own fundraising and The National Lottery Heritage Fund grant, has led to the rescue and repair and re-interpretation of this important building in England’s national story. It’s been an honour to have been part of it.”

The restored Old Chapel is now open for visitors to Tolpuddle, and as a social and cultural amenity for the local community.

For more information, visit: https://tolpuddleoldchapeltrust.org