Sir, - Sadly, bats are not the only endangered species (
News, 28 October). Carers of large and small country churches in many
dioceses are finding it increasingly difficult to cope with the filthy mess of
bat excreta which falls into the worship area, and the resulting damage that
urine and faeces cause to artefacts, woodwork, flooring, and soft furnishings.
Church carers and their communities are already stretched to raise enough
money for running expenses, the Quota, and repair work, in order to keep these
buildings of our spiritual and historical heritage in good order for this and
future generations.
The situation has become ludicrous when bats dictate the timetable of
repairs, and increase these costs. The bat lobby should be made to contribute
towards this.
Bats are constantly looking out for suitable roost sites, and have already
adapted to modern housing. The house of God is a dwelling inhabited by people,
and should be treated as such by the law, and allowed the leniency given to
householders. If this imbalance continues, bats may well be the sole survivors
in churches.
CATHERINE WARD
Movement Against Bats in Churches
2 Rose Cottages
Victoria Road
Ledbury
Herefordshire HR8 2DB