In last month’s issue, there was an update about some of the restoration works of St James. The complete work needed is significant for which we’ll need a big grant application, but, as mentioned last month, we are blessed to have secured some smaller grants plus with the busy fundraising, we have been able to have the gutters, hoppers and drains cleared, essential repairs to the tiled roofs of the church and also the Bier House have been carried out. Sadly the south and north aisle roofs need extensive work and despite temporary repairs we still have a few leaks! However, the steeplejacks’ ladders are up on the spire again and it’s hoped that the NE pinnacle will be removed within the next couple of months, which means that, all being well, we should be able to have the bells rung again! I know that our Bellringers have very much missed ringing at St James and many of the community have commented that they miss hearing the bells too.
The Southam Bellringers have kept busy though by organising a Walking Treasure Hunt in September and despite the awful weather that afternoon, lots of fun was had, and lots of tea and cake consumed! It was lovely to meet new people whilst raising another £280.
On another damp day, it was lovely to welcome Lee Ellard, Southam Town Mayor, and civic dignitaries from Warwickshire. It was hoped that Bernard from Southam Heritage would be able to lead a history tour of Southam from The Grange to St James, but sadly rain stopped play. However, we were treated to the really interesting talk in St James and after an interval for chat, tea and cake, visitors then explored the church with snippets of stories, fun facts and history of the church from Jane Jones, Churchwarden of St James. All in all a very enjoyable afternoon.
As part of the Heritage Open Days, St James was open over 19th & 20th September for fascinating tours of the church with lots of fun facts. I even helped one of the Brownies with her research for a Brownie Badge! Bernard from Southam Heritage kindly set up a historic display and members of St James set up displays of historical artefacts including a very old, large, family Bible, an ancient grave book, a beautiful christening robe, and even a canon ball from the civil war! It was lovely to welcome lots of visitors - some who had travelled quite a distance - and have really interesting conversations….oh and tea and cake!
October is looking just as busy as we begin the month with two churchyard clear up mornings on Friday October 3rd & Saturday 4th from 9 until 12 - weather permitting of course. If you can spare a bit of time to help that would be wonderful - I’ve been told that there will be coffee and cake at half time!
On October 19th, we are very much looking forward to welcoming Southam Primary Choir, Melody Makers and the Windmill Singers for an afternoon concert. Please do look out for more information on town and church noticeboards, social media or our website
https://bit.ly/SouthamStJames Tickets will be available via the church office which is open Monday, Wednesday & Thursday 9-1. 01926 812413 or [email protected]
And lastly, on October 30th Footprints Stay & Play Group will be hosting a Light Party from 1 until 3pm. The group is usually for 0 to 5s, but as it’s half term siblings will be welcome. There’ll be the usual fun and refreshments plus light themed crafts and activities, so dress in your brightest clothes and join in the fun. No charge, but donations are welcomed.
As always, thank you for your support and making Southam to great community that it is.
Blessings,
Vikki