Church and Hall Care Maintaining a medieval Church and rather newer Hall is an ongoing task which requires time and resources. Over the last twelve months a range of improvements and repairs have been carried out. The new heating system is the headline and most expensive project. The first phase, installing a heat pump in the Hall is complete and we now have the Diocesan Advisory Committee’s approval to formally apply for a Faculty. (This is the Church of England’s equivalent of planning permission.) The installation of the new system in the Church is likely to be carried out in late spring. In addition, the accessible toilet in the Hall has been renewed and now meets all current standards. The lights have been converted to LED’s which saves electricity and repairs have been carried out to the windows. In the Church, the roof alarm was not working and has been replaced, broken, and cracked windows repaired and a split in the lead on the porch roof sealed. Repairs are needed to the bell clapper bearings, and we already have very generous donations from members of the congregation towards this. The northeast corner parapet needs to be secured and repairs to the main roof may be needed as there are some leaks. All this work has stretched the finances and of course the day-to-day expenses continue. Grants from several sources have been obtained to help fund the projects and more are being actively sought. VAT paid on some of the projects has been successfully recovered. The Social Committee is working tirelessly arranging fund-raising events. BUT we still need more. A Church QR code is available to allow electronic donations and the Easy Fundraising app gives cash back on a wide range of online purchases. The general financial situation does not make asking for money easy but if you give by direct debit, it would be really helpful if it could be increased. Also, if you are a taxpayer and put cash in the collection each week could you consider giving regularly by direct debit or using one of the pink envelopes, the Gift Aid forms are on the table just inside the Church door. This way the government adds an extra 25% to your giving. Thankyou.
