The Stowey Revived Project is progressing well, but there are no headlines to report. We are fine-tuning our planning application, in conjunction with our excellent Consultant Arborist, so we’re hoping to make substantive progress with this very soon.

Looking at September, we have 2 very special events. First, on Saturday 16^th September, Rev’d Dr Ian Mills will be giving an Organ Recital under the banner, “Serenade for September”. Before taking Holy Orders, Ian was Organist and Master of the Choristers at Derry Cathedral in Northern Ireland. He is now Rector of the Benefice of Chew Valley West. Ian has devised a delightful Programme, which will last just under an hour. He’s tried the organ in the church and I think we’ll all marvel at the music he’ll produce on it. The instrument will be tuned a couple of days before the Recital, so all we then need is fine weather and a fair crowd of you to enjoy the music! You don’t have to buy a ticket or book a place. Entry is free, with a Retiring Collection for the church and then refreshments. Please put it in your diary and look forward to a wonderful evening!

On Sunday 24^th September at 6.30pm, we’ll celebrate Harvest Festival in style, with the Choir of the United Parish, led by Tricia Rees-Jones with Jean at the organ, our good friend Tony Wilds leading the service, in the presence of Rt Rev’d Michael Beasley, the Bishop of Bath and Wells who will give the Address. Drinks and canapés will be served after the service. I’m again praying for fine weather, as we shall need to serve refreshments in the churchyard. It will be an occasion not to be missed! Everyone is very welcome.

And finally, we had a splendid afternoon towards the end of July, when 3 of the Stowey Gardens were open for the National Garden Scheme. There’s a special report on this elsewhere in the magazine, but thanks to all of you who made and contributed cakes and scones for the Teas and who donated plants for the plant sales; as well as to those who helped with the Teas and who sold plants. The Church benefitted from these sales to the tune of over £1600, a tremendous achievement. Thank you to everyone involved!

Jill Nicol, Churchwarden