Chelmsford Chronicle Friday 17/2/1928 reported: 'TILBURY CHURCH ON FIRE During the storm much damage was caused to the tower of the Parish Church of St. Margarets, at Tilbury-juxta-Clare, which was struck by lightning. Capt, Tilleard heard a loud crash and saw flames coming from the top of the church tower, and once gave the alarm. A messenger was sent to Great Yeldham for the Brigade, which hurried to the scene. Later, the Halstead Fire Brigade arrived with a powerful motor pump and succeeded in preventing the flames spreading. The hose was then taken through the porch into the church, and through the belfry door. By the aid of lamps the firemen clambered up the narrow winding steps to the belfry with their hose, and could then see where the fire was. The signal to pump was given, and in twenty minutes the fire was out. The lightning is believed to have struck the flagstaff, and though the roof was destroyed, the pole stands. The leaden roof covering was fused, and the supporting beams were set on fire. The molten metal poured into the belfry, and splashed over the two bells which were cast in 1607. Years ago a third bell hung in the belfry, but this was transferred to Castle Hedingham. The fire damage is estimated at about £230. Services were held as usual'. https://www.britishnewspaperarchive.co.uk/viewer/bl/0000516/19280217/032/0003