Luckily, we are very fortunate to have an enormous number of friends, villagers and parishioners who have repeatedly shown that, given the right cause, you will support a mission of this magnitude – with zeal and dedication. A variety of “Fun-raising” events are being planned to supplement direct donations, such as the Grand Auction on 9th July. It’s our belief this building holds the traditions & history of the whole community, a legacy worth fighting for!
Creation of a dynamic environment, capable of hosting a multitude of events suitable for all ages. It will address the needs of comfort and convenience. It will better cater for the requirements of all generations. The flexible seating will allow for smaller groups in settings that are conducive to greater participation, augmented by modern facilities. The internal space will be easily configurable to host such events as exhibitions, performing arts, crafts and informal lectures – tailored to suit the expected numbers in attendance with seating arrangements that play to the strengths of the building but focus on the audience’s engagement - maximising participation and enjoyment. An improved heating system will ensure year-round comfort and enable full use daytime or evening.
The plan is to: • Replace the pews with new, individual, comfortable & flexible seating. • Install a running water supply and build a small kitchen unit with storage. • Provide an updated audio-visual system with internet access • A new lighting system • Improve the heating with highoutput radiators • Upgrade the toilet facilities • Ensure the whole church is accessible for disabled use. There will also be changes to the flooring, repairs to stonework & external paths.
Currently, the church has limited appeal, it lacks the amenities to properly host a range of events that we know would fit with a building of its character and presence in the village. As presently configured it doesn’t lend itself to functions where conviviality is key, where attendees can sit in comfort, where young and old can mix in smaller groups – perhaps performing crafts or sharing produce. Providing refreshments is always a challenge. Alternative service formats are not always possible and hosting any kind of group performance is a squeeze, logistically. Comfort is clearly a major ‘turn-off’ as is lack of suitable facilities. We face the prospect that diminishing congregations and use will lead to lower income and possible closure!
