Friends of St Mary's

A big thank you to everyone who has and continues to support the Friends in all our fundraising efforts.

​​

At present some of the Friends' Committee members are working with Fr Nigel, the PCC and volunteers on options, costings, available grants, and fundraising ideas to replace the heating in the church, following the breakdown of the old system. This isn't an easy task, as there is so much to consider, including St Mary's Church's wish to comply the Church of England’s policy of not allowing the installation of new fossil fuel boilers,  and achieving net zero by 2030.

​

As there are a number of events taking place in the church as part of the over all 'Building Project Appeal' the Friends have not organised as many standalone events during 2025, but have helped out (often with running a bar) at various concerts.

 

2024 was a busy year for the Friends and, as always, a delight to run events which attract people outside normal worship and raise some money into the bargain. One of the highlights of 2024 was an Autumn Concert, featuring a new work by the composer Ben Ponniah, performed by the Woodbridge Choral Society and the St Mary’s Church Choir under the charismatic direction of James Davy. The event raised well over £1,000.

 

Other events included a ‘Words and Music’ cameo (thanks to Sue Smith Lyte and Sir Nick Young); a royally connected guest speaker, Sir Stephen Lamport, (thanks again to Sir Nick) and the ever popular Joyspring (thanks to Romy and Darrell).

 

Alongside these events, we also supported the Church Summer & Christmas Fairs, and provided mulled wine & mince pies during the town Christmas Carols on Market Square.

 

In addition to funds raised at events, the Friends also received a very generous donation of £4,000 from the late Bertie Fried.  

 

​​