Church hails solution to bat dropping problem

Sail-like structures have been installed at a church to catch bat droppings

A church has praised its special nets that stop bat droppings falling on to worshippers.

St Mary Magdalene Church in Brampton, near Huntingdon, said it believed its sail-type canvas constructions erected below the eaves in October 2022 were the first of their kind.

"We were keen to forge a new way and try new things, knowing that other churches have tried different solutions that don't always look as pleasant as the solution that we've got," said Rev Duncan Goldthorpe.

"The difference has been immense. The place is cleaner and fresher."

Members of the congregation risked droppings falling on to them during services

The church dates back to the 15th Century and members did not want a structure that interfered with the look of the building.

Bats have lived in the building for several decades and the community also wanted to find a way of co-existing.

"The impact for churchgoers meant that a lot of soft furnishings would be covered with droppings and also they'd be a smell there, and therefore they'll be a need to clean-up as well," said Rev Goldthorpe.

"Particularly on the communion tables, they would need to be cleared for Sunday service."

The new "sails" have meant cleaning with specialised products carried out on a weekly basis was no longer needed.

Rev Duncan Goldthorpe said it was good to come up with a solution that supported bats as well

The church researched the prevention measure with Bats in Churches and an ecology group.

Rev Goldthorpe said: "The beauty of these sails is that unless you look for them, a lot of people don't realise they're there.

"It's improved things enormously, as we have less material on the floor and furnishings and also there is less of a smell of their presence."

The sails can be removed for cleaning.

The rector said it was important to find ways of living with nature.

"We are all part of God's creation and this is a practical way that we care for all his creations."

Bats are protected by the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 and it is a criminal offence to kill bats or destroy their colonies.