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Couple angry over old law which may mean hefty bill
A Bamber Bridge couple is furious after being told they may face a hefty bill under a law dating back to medieval times.
Alyson and Paul Heggie, of Langden Crescent, are expecting their second child in eight weeks and, together with their 18-month-old son Joe, were hoping to be settled in their dream home in Brownedge Road in March.
However, they've been told their new house is built on land subject to an ancient law that means medieval St Leonard's Church – more than a mile away in Walton-le-Dale – could claim cash from them towards repairs.
Telesales worker Alyson said: "I am shocked. There is absolutely no chance I will pay anything for the church. I am a non-practising Christian.
"We are still moving in because I don't see why I should have to give up my dream home for the church. But I will fight the law every step of the way."
Chancel repair liability means property on former rectorial land could be liable to church maintenance costs.
Solicitors have stressed it does not mean all Lancashire churches will now serve bills on parishioners – but they are urging homeowners to be aware of it when moving house.
Preston conveyancing executive Lisa Hodgkinson, of MWR Solicitors, said: "People could buy a house without knowing they could be liable to maintenance costs."
St Leonard's vicar Canon Roy McCullough said: "It's like anything – if you undertake an agreement you have to pay something.
"We would not drive someone from house and home but we would consider claiming money."
A spokesman for the Blackburn Diocese added: "Obviously there has been increased concern because of a recent high profile court case, but in the Church of England in Lancashire any situation would be looked at on a case by case basis.
"But you can never say never when it comes to individual agreements and contracts."
No court cases have been raised in Lancashire – but a Warwickshire couple may have to foot a 500,000 bill.
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Thursday 24 May 2012
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