Peter Noakes’ recent talk about St Mary’s Through Time, focussing on the Royal Arms and Rev Havard, was very well supported. (Read more below). Progress in setting up the Art Exhibition is well underway but more works would be much appreciated. The Friends of St Mary’s report as follows:
Art In The Old Church
The Friends have had a lot of interest in their forthcoming art exhibition. This takes place over the weekend of 15th-16th June but so far only about 20 people have submitted forms. They welcome budding Continue reading “St Mary’s – Royal Arms, Havard and Art”
Peter Noakes, a local historian & Chairman of the Local History Group, shares his first thoughts on using a new mapping tool offered by the National Library of Scotland (yes you read that right, Scotland), to explore West Bergholt. Also, a quick reminder about a talk Peter will give on 18th May.
Hillhouse Wood is renowned for its bluebell display every spring
2019 Spring Flower Walk
Steve Hallam’s Guided 2019 Spring flower walk is fast approaching. These gentle walks guide you from the Old Church into the wonderful Hillhouse Woods in their spring glory where you might be fortunate to see many species of wildlife as well as spring flowers.
The first of three events coming up at St Mary’s Old Church, will be a wedding for a Vicar of Dibley play. This will be followed by an illustrated history talk and an art exhibition.
Mulled Wine, Mince Pies and Candlelit Carols are on offer as the Friends of St Mary’s resume their normal programme.
Extensive external renovations affecting the tower and the 2 dormer windows and roof repairs have now been fully completed. The next phase of internal redecorations is now likely to start in Spring 2019. This means that the church is open for use allowing the Friends to organise two seasonal events:
Mulled Wine & Mince Pies
Taking place between 11:30 am – 1:30 pm on Sunday 9th December, soft drinks, coffee and other savoury eats will also be on offer. The event also affords an opportunity to take out or renew membership (just £5 a family), and to buy Christmas Cards of the church. There is no charge for this event but you are welcome to offer a donation.
Candlelit Service
The ever-popular Candlelit Carol Service resumes on Sunday 16th December at 2:30 pm. You are reminded that there is no heating, so dress warm, and that a cushion makes the service more comfortable. All are welcome.
Update on Reopening Concert
This concert which featured the Comrie Singers, Jubilant Brass and The 3 Saxes was very well attended and raised £100’s, the Friends are planning to run another concert next year.
Steve Hallam will lead a guided walk to seek out berries, soft fruit, nuts, seeds & fungi. All of these are now out in abundance. To join Steve you should meet him at the Old Church at 10 am on Saturday 20th October -wear suitable clothing! You should wear strong boots or wellies as we may encounter Continue reading “Autumn Walk – Fungi, Berries & Fruits”
Almost a year after the Friends of St Mary’s announced that funds had been raised for urgent repairs to the Old Church, the Church is reopening to the public. The builders removed the scaffolding from St. Mary’s Old Church almost two weeks ago and committee members have been beavering away cleaning a rather dirty and dusty church. As from this Sunday 24th June, we are very pleased to say that it is back in use once again. It will be open every day from 10 am – 4 pm.
When you visit you may be surprised that there is not much discernible difference inside the church. The recent repairs addressed the roof, 2 dormer windows and rotten timbers were replaced. The tower was also reclad with Cedar panels (see above). The next phase will involve redecoration of the interior. The work is being done by the Churches Conservation Trust who are responsible for the fabric of the church along with 350 others. The village Friends’ group aims to keep the Old Church a part of village life by opening and closing it daily and raising enough funds to keep it and the churchyard properly cared for.
Reopening Concert
On Sunday 24th June at 3 pm, we are delighted to welcome back the Comrie Singers together with Jubilant Brass and The 4 Saxes who will entertain visitors with a musical concert. Tickets are only £6 and this includes refreshments served after the concert. Please do come and enjoy this annual event.
More about the Performers
Comrie Singers
Comrie Singers Performing last year
The Comrie Singers choir has been going about 7 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.
Jubilant Brass
Jubilant Brass in action while 3 Saxes wait their turn last year
Jubilant Brass formed in 2012 which was Jubilee year, hence the name. It was originally a quartet until the Tuba player joined three years ago making them a quintet.
The 3 Saxes
The 3 Saxes are a group that plays at weddings and other social events and are all members of other bands and orchestras in the area.
It might be an early start but the Dawn Chorus can truly deliver its own reward. Once again Steve Hallam will be leading the Dawn Chorus Walk around Hillhouse Wood, offering the chance to see and/or hear nightingales and many other brilliant dawn choristers like the Blackcap (see right).
