Torbryan: painted panels

Holy Trinity Church, Torbryan, Devon

In August 2013, we were devastated when two panels from the priceless 15th century oak rood screen at Holy Trinity Torbryan in Devon were hacked out by thieves in a raid, and disappeared.

The panels, bearing paintings of St Victor and St Margaret, were stolen in August 2013 and a third sustained significant damage during the theft.

Following a national media campaign we were delighted when the panels were recovered by the Metropolitan Police Art and Antiques Unit. However, the woodwork and the unique paintings of St Victor of Marseilles and St Margaret of Antioch were left badly damaged.

Thanks to our generous supporters, £7,000 was raised for essential conservation of the panels. Specialist conservators worked painstakingly for 12 months and in 2016 they were returned to their rightful place for everyone to enjoy.

Click to read about the process of conserving the panels