St Michael's was delighted to receive a new processional cross, kindly donated by Ron Eather in memory of his wife, Jillian - a much-loved member of our congregation - who died in August this year. The exisiting brass-topped processional cross is very heavy - too heavy for our crucifers who have had to stand down from the role.

The new oak cross was comissioned by the churchwardens from Pete Hesketh of Ribble Valley Woodcraft. It is shorter and lighter than the previous cross and has a stand so that it can be stable, but free standing, on any floor. It blends perfectly with the existing oak church furniture and the architecture of the church.

Its arrival has created great excitement in the church and some of the young people who were confirmed this year and others have already volunteered to carry it and to help as servers for our Eucharists. From having no regular crucifer, we now have a rota of 8 people.