This Grade II listed Market Cross was originally constructed in 1795. It had been struck by a car in 2017, the impact of which demolished the monument, damaging many of the stone components, some beyond repair and reuse. 

After the careful dismantling, the masonry components were laid out in courses for inspection.  Each stone was recorded and prepared for storage at Ashen Cross Quarry along with the associated rubble.  It had been built originally with Ham stone from a local quarry.

The stone up to the column base is a mix of old and new stone, with as much of the original stone being reused as possible.  Where stone was damaged or weathered beyond repair, profiles were taken fromt he original stone section.  The column itself has been rebuilt using entirely new Ham Hill Stone and above this is all old stone with piecing repairs.

To improve longevity, the bed orientation for all shaft stones was changed from being 'joint bedded' to 'on bed' with new course heights to suit.

The reconstruction has a continuous single stainless steel reinforcing rod for the full height of the monument introduced in individual lengths, each connected by threaded sleeves to enable tensioning of the reinforcing rod as the reconstruction proceeds. 

This project was a rewarding one to be involved with and much appreciated by the Ilchester locals who were very pleased to see their Market Cross restored to its original glory.

Judges comments: - "The Judges felt that this was a satisfying project in which the stone selection is good, and the end result convincing."