DEATH-WATCH BEETLE,

Auckland Star, Volume LXIII, Issue 121, 24 May 1932, Page 15

DEATH-WATCH BEETLE,

ATTACKING OLD CHURCHES. OAKEN BEAMS HONEYCOMBED. Tlio little death-watch beetle, which so far lias defied all the efforts of the scientists, is now attacking the church of St. Mary Aldermary, in Bow Lane, E.C. No one at the church suspected that the beetle was causing trouble, but in view of the fact that one church after another was being attacked, it was decided to make certain. It has now been found that some of the oak beams are honeycombed, while the surface r, an be rubbed into powder. No activity can be noticed, and it is not certain whether the insects are dead or alive. It is suspected, however, ihat they have " dug in " for the winter, and that tlicy will reappear soon. Pieces of the timbers have been removed for inspection. Pending the result of the examination nothing is to be done to treat tlic beams. Some of the trusses will have to be removed. St. Mary Aldermary has a ceiling unique in London. It is of the fan-groin type, and is most elaborate. A few montlis ago it was found that | the beetle had attacked the roof of St. Mary-le-Bow, Clieapside, and done considerable damage. Probably the worst of its depredations was at Westminster Hall, the famous roof of which was nearly eaten away, and cost about £100,000 to replace. Many famous churches in the provinces have been damaged by the insect, including Peterborough Cathedral.