Dear Editor,

On behalf of St Mary’s, may I thank all who have contributed to our efforts to tidy up and maintain the open churchyard.

Over £1500 has been donated, with which it has been possible to employ our contractor for more hours, resulting in cleared areas being regularly maintained.

Even more impressive is the work of volunteers. For many years volunteers have kept the garden of remembrance as a beautiful part of our large open churchyard and have also been able to help with the main area. This year we have had to enlist the help of many more volunteers with three organised Saturdays for our ‘Churchyard Angels’, the last being September 12th.

On top of this several stalwarts have turned up each Saturday morning to continue the work. The result is that at least 80% of the area is now cleared and under control.

Naturally we would welcome more volunteers on any Saturday morning but we want to pass our thanks on to all who have contributed and to the good offices of your esteemed publication for your support.

Anyone wishing to help should contact the church Office on 01989 562175.

John Setchfield

Church warden