Blame the Plantagenets

If the Old Church mediaeval paintings are, as believed, around 700 years old, then we can blame the Plantagenets for its delayed reopening. Apparently, deciding how best to preserve them has become a bit of a headache which is delaying the internal redecoration. Accordingly, the Friends of St Mary’s have revised their event plans for 2020 as follows:

West Bergholt Concert Band

Originally scheduled for 5th April, and kicking off their 2020 programme, this has been postponed to a future date yet to be arranged.

Craft Fayre

Originally scheduled for May, this is postponed to Saturday 5th September. The idea for this was inspired by the Friends’ Art Show last year when many asked about displaying other crafts; well, they now have their chance!

So, dig out your needles, hammers, chisels, lathes and whatever else you need, and amaze everybody with your creativity! Apply to [antibot mailto=”fosmochurch.gmail.com”], or Jane 01206 240167, or Gill 01206 240512 for further information or to express interest in booking a table.

June Concerts

June sees two excellent concerts, both starting at 3 pm:

Resonate Choir

On Sunday 7th June, Resonate is a group of singers who met in a world music choir in Colchester, south-east England.

After singing in the choir for about 15 years, the twelve singers decided to take a separate path together and deepen a repertoire they particularly appreciate: the “Sacred Harp” (a musical tradition of the late eighteenth century that originates in the southern United States), the traditional Slavic song (Bulgarian, Croatian and Georgian among others), and the traditional songs of South Africa as well as other African countries.

However, their repertoire is not limited to these three styles: expect them to surprise you with songs from other parts of the world as well! Look out for Bluegrass, Blues and Gospel Songs alongside prison work songs.

Comrie Singers

Now regular visitors the Comrie Singers return on Sunday 28th June. The Comrie Singers choir has been going for nearly 10 years now. Originally formed by parents with an association to St. Mary’s School. The name derives from Comrie House, their Lower School in Lexden, where they used to rehearse.

They now rehearse every second Monday at Philip Morant School, and cover all genres of music, as long as it is fun. The Choir always welcome new members. Not all members can read music, that is not necessary, but it does help of course.

St Mary’s Through Time

Local Historian Peter Noakes will be talking about St Mary’s Through Time on Saturday 14th of July. He will answer puzzles such as:

who was the Rector at St Mary’s for an amazing 48 years, and
why is there a Royal Coat of Arms on the wall?

Peter, who originally gave this talk last May, is returning due to popular demand by many who missed it last year. Donations towards the upkeep of the Old Church would be most welcome by the Friends. Refreshments will be available.

Peter is also the Chairman of the Local History Group who meet monthly to discuss numerous topics relating to history in West Bergholt and its surroundings. You can read more about Local History on our History Pages.