Five heritage sites in Oxfordshire have been "saved" from the heritage risk register, according to Historic England.

However, 38 sites of historic value remain on this year’s list, meaning they are at risk of neglect, decay, or inappropriate development.

One of the sites “saved” are the iconic ruins of an Elizabethan Manor House Ruins at Hampton Gay near Kidlington in Cherwell Valley, in rural Oxfordshire, which is a Grade II listed scheduled monument dating to the 16th century.

READ MORE: Staffie bites man in Oxfordshire as police launch probe

The ruins we see today were created after the building burnt down in 1887.

Since then, the structure was threatened with disrepair, until Historic England helped the landowner get Countryside Stewardship Funding to carry out essential repairs.

The Manor House The Manor House (Image: Historical England) The site is one of 18 across the southeast which have been saved from disrepair and removed to the list, although 13 others have been added to this year’s register because they are at risk.

Duncan Wilson, chief executive of Historic England, said: “Heritage is so important to the Southeast. It plays a vital role in our society and boosts the regional economy.

“This year, we have seen partners and communities come together to help save the historic buildings and places that need it the most and it’s inspirational to see how we can harness the power of our heritage to benefit local people across the region.

“Together, we can save our places and find new ways to enjoy the heritage that people value so much.”  

READ MORE: Bishop of Oxford stays silent as Justin Welby resigns

There are now more than 4,800 entries on the Heritage at Risk Register across England, 446 of which are in the southeast.

The register gives an annual snapshot of the health of the country’s valued historic buildings and places, which the charity says brings communities together, inspires creativity and boost economic growth.

According to Historical England, the heritage sector in the southeast contributes £7billion to the economy and employs nearly 80,000 people annually.

In the past year the charity awarded more than £1million in grants for repairs to nine sites in the region.

Heritage minister Sir Chris Bryant said: “The UK has an abundance of heritage sites across the country that attract tourists and provide jobs in local communities. Many of these are in desperate need of support.

“The Heritage at Risk Register plays a vital role in our ongoing mission to protect and preserve our rich heritage across the country.

“Many beloved sites have been removed from the list this year and I hope that more will be saved thanks to their inclusion this year."

READ MORE: Clarkson’s Farm star Gerald Cooper announces new venture

The other Oxfordshire sites rescued from risk include the Pump Copse earthwork in Kiddington, a section of the North Oxfordshire Grim’s Ditch, and the Church of St Mary in Buckland.

The 38 sites in Oxfordshire which remain on the list include listed buildings and structures, places of worship, places of archaeological interest, parks, gardens, and conservation areas.

Help support trusted local news

Sign up for a digital subscription now: https://www.oxfordmail.co.uk/subscribe/

As a digital subscriber you will get:            

  • Unlimited access to the Oxford Mail website        

  • Advert-light access             

  • Reader rewards             

  • Full access to our app