The Friends of St James the Great, Thorley
Report by the Secretary to the Annual Parochial Church Meeting May 2022
Following the Friends agreement to cover the cost of the repairs to the Church that were outstanding form these identified during the 2014 and 2019 Quinquennial Inspections, we were pleased to be able to make a grant to the Parochial Church Council (PCC) of £7,165 in November 2021 following the completion of this work by Lodge & Sons Builders Ltd. This covered the full cost of these repairs less the element of VAT, the latter being reclaimable by the PCC through the Listed Places of Worship Grant Scheme.
The Friends ability to raise funds during 2021 was significantly limited by the public safety measures in force during much of the year in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Friends were, however, able to host a short season of Sunday Afternoon Teas from the first Sunday in August until the last Sunday in September and an Autumn Craft Fair in November. Together with income from membership subscriptions and donations, this led to the funds at the Friends’ disposal as we entered 2022 being a little over £20,500. A significant call on these funds is likely to be in respect of the installation of a new boiler for the Church.
New members of the Friends are always welcome. The minimum family subscription is only £5.00. By joining you will be supporting the work of the PCC by helping to preserve our ancient and beautiful Church building and to maintain our Churchyard.
Philip Hargrave
Chairman & Secretary