Save St Mary's, Hadleigh

If you're reading this, thank you for taking the time to hear my story.

St Mary's Church in Hadleigh is a remarkable building full of extraordinary people. A Grade I listed building, it is a medieval marvel where people have worshipped for well over a thousand years. But more importantly to me, being the largest available indoor space in the town, St Mary's has grown to be the heart of the community, situated at the heart of Hadleigh.

Besides the usual services, volunteers from the church and wider community help to host the ever growing Pop-Up Picnics. These events are held twice a month (weekly during school holidays) and provide FREE food, drink, games and companionship for EVERYBODY. There is no criteria to be met, everyone is welcome and numbers have increased to see up to 150 adults and children at each session.

A small group of talented ladies and gentlemen run a group called FROGS, aimed at primary school aged children. Every week the children are nurtured through games, crafts and song and the demand for this is also growing.

Café Church every Friday morning supplies breakfasts on a donate what you can basis, meaning that even more of the community can be fed and watered at a cost that is manageable to them and I must add that the resident chef's efforts are outstandingly tasty! And on the first Friday of each month a crafters market runs alongside the café, supporting local small businesses to sell their wares.

The church acted as a vaccination centre during Covid, has held English lessons for Ukrainian refuges, and it goes without saying that there is an overwhelming need for Baptism, Wedding and Funeral services.

However....

The floor is badly damaged and needs urgent attention.

The need for a functional kitchen increases day by day.

The roof is badly damaged and requires urgently fixing.

But none of these things can take place until the old heating and lighting (which is causing the damage to the roof) has been replaced.

All the necessary and time consuming research has taken place and a shiny new light and heating system has been found!

14 infrared heating and LED lighting chandeliers, in keeping with the beauty of the building will not only prevent any further damage to the roof, but will produce savings of up to 63% on heating costs AND will contribute to the Church becoming Net Zero Carbon. All the above mentioned community services will be able to continue, but not without your help...

Costs for the "halos" have been quoted at nearly £10,000 each and to run the church efficiently, 14 of them are required. They have been lucky enough to receive some funds from local residents and business owners, but putting it bluntly, it's not enough, which is why I am asking for anyone who is able, to help.

I am trying to raise A LOT of money, I am aware of that. But I whole heartedly believe that is would be possible to find 35,000 people willing to donate just £2 each. If you can spare more that is amazing! Can you only spare a pound? Equally as important in this quest for assistance.

For more information, you can email the church administrator from the website.

Thank you for taking the time to read :)