Bricklayers Arms lends a hand to makeover church grounds
A chance conversation in the Bricklayers Arms, Thornton has led to a clean-up operation for the village's local church.
A visit to the Grade I listed building by a church architect highlighted the need for a restoration project of the church and its grounds. This instigated a conversation between licensee Jan Markie and a couple of regular customers, which led to the creation of the "Tender Loving Care" initiative.
The group decided to help clear up the overgrown church grounds and a task force of volunteers made up from the pub regulars assembled on the 1st of March to tackle the job. Aided by equipment and money provided by local businesses, a group of 25 helpers cleared the way for further work to be carried out.
Church warden Martin Foster said, "We are happy and grateful for all the hard work completed by volunteers from the pub and local community, by clearing out the grounds. Unfortunately the scrubland had got a bit neglected over time as it was on a steep slope, so was unsuitable for burial and therefore had no use. It now looks great and it just goes to show what can happen when a local community pulls together."
Licensee Ben Markie said, "It turned out to be a bigger job than we thought and although we had to get a tractor and JCB involved but we were happy to provide some help. The day had a real community atmosphere and with the provision of free beer donated by Everards, we were happy to host some well deserved refreshments in the pub afterwards."
Martin Foster added, "St. Peters church was built in the 12th century and features many wonderful aspects dating back to the 14th century. Unfortunately the building still needs some work and we need to raise about £35,000 in funding, so any charitable donations would be welcome."