Welsh Journals

the same area, it is at least possible that this particular roof is of pre-Reformation date.3 Removal of the section of damaged ceiling revealed the remains of a second arched ceiling above it, which was clearly that of the old gallery. The west face of the westermost truss was covered by plasterwork to a considerable height, and was presumably also part of the gallery's construction. It was this which prevented the light from reaching the rest of the roof. Because of labour costs the timbering was only exposed overnight and the new ceiling was erected the following morning. Much as one would have wished to have stripped away the whole ceiling and left the ancient roof exposed to view, the financial problems involved in cleaning and treating the beams and in subsequently heating the church rendered any such action impracticable. It is, however, worthwhile recording that, subject to reservation as to date, the statement in the RCAM report of 1910 is correct. E.H.C.D. 3See Peter Smith: 'Hall, Tower and Church: Some Themes and Sites Reconsidered'; Welsh Society and Nationhood Historical Essays presented to Glanmor Williams: UWP 1984; p.p 125, 126 & Fig. 5.