The Living Stones Appeal 2008-2010

The Living Stones Appeal ran from 2008 to 2010 to fund restoration work on the church and the churchyard and was generously supported by the congregation, the community and a large number of charities.  Over £120,000 was raised.  The works that were funded through this appeal included:

• Repair and restoration of churchyard walls;
• Repairs to the nave and tower walls;
• Replacement to the tower roof;
• A replacement bell headstock;
• Updated lighting;
• Repairs to the cobbles by the west door;
• A kitchenette built on the south wall of the church for the making of coffee and the serving of light refreshments.

The appeal was launched in June 2008 and the renowned church historian, Martin Palmer (who lived locally) was invited to give a talk about the church and its history.  That event was filmed and you can watch Martin’s inspiring and informative address here:

The appeal was unfortunately launched only weeks before the start of the financial crisis of 2008 which made the raising of funds that much more difficult.  Nevertheless the hard work paid off, the works were completed and a celebration of its success was held at St Mary’s on 31 July 2010.

Thanks goes to the appeal committee who manged the appeal and brought it successfully to a conclusion:

Paul Denyer                                      Vicar, Chairman

Jacqui Harris                                    Treasurer

Jill Gibson                                          Grant makers and major donors

Liz Midgley                                        Prayer

Bob Willis                                          Projects

Ann Willis                                          Community Appeal

Ken Gibson                                        Secretary