Our beautiful church in Eldersfield
We have recently replaced the roof on our North Aisle and it looks stunning - and waterproof! This was largely paid for by an insurance claim as our lead had been stolen some months before. After much discussion, negotiation and patience we were delighted that we were allowed to replace the stolen lead with tern-coated steel, making it of little value to thieves and a material that weathers to look like lead. Great result.
Our next task was to replace the lead on our Lady Chapel roof which had outlived its useful life. This also was replaced by steel, though the cost was borne by us - the congregation and local supporters in Eldersfield and surrounding area. The cost of the replacement was around £10,000, and thankfully, despite the roof having been leaking for a number of years, there was no significant damage to the Jacobean beams and supports underneath. Thank Heaven!
We have held many fundraising events to support our restoration work, giving an opportunity for local people to meet up with friends and neighbours and to raise funds at the same time. Our latest get-together was a Musical Evening held in the grounds of Eldersfield Court, by kind permission of the owners Matthew and Fiona, featuring musicians from the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire and our favourite Jazz Band, Stolen Chocolates. The audience of around 120 was enthralled by the feast of wonderful music: also enjoying freshly cooked 'paella & puddings' in the interval with the chance to wander through the beautiful gardens. After days of heavy rain, the sun shone and despite getting a bit chilly towards the end of the Concert, the moon came out and 'hung' right above the performers' marquee. Magical.
The Quiz Night held at Eldersfield Lawn School in the Spring, was a sell-out. Over 80 people exercised their brains in a light-hearted though competitive way, with everyone enjoying fish & chips and a chat during the interval. Our fundraising to date this year has amounted to around £3,000, which is wonderful ... and much needed ... in order to keep our beautiful church available for all. If you would like to join us at our next Quiz Night in November or to help with any of the events we organise, you would be MORE than welcome!
This year for the first time, we entered into the Best Kept Churchyard competition, partly because we are very proud of it but also to gain some recognition for the team who work so hard to keep it looking tidy, well-tended and easily accessible to all who wish to tend graves. We were delighted to hear that we have passed the first independent inspections and have progressed to the second round. Fingers crossed!
We are very proud of our church: not only its stunning Grade2* architecture dating back to Norman times, but also the quietness of its setting in a beautiful corner of Worcestershire. Whether you wish to visit to enjoy its peace and beauty, to hold your wedding in its magical surroundings or to join us at one of our regular services, you can be sure of a warm welcome. The church is open each weekend and our services are listed on this website. We look forward to seeing you.