The Summer Ball held on Saturday June 7 at the Villages Hall chalked up yet another success for the Friends of St James charity, with a welcome boost to funds which exceeded all expectations in reaching in excess of £1,300. Over eighty people enjoyed the sell-out event with a hot and cold buffet and dancing to local band ‘Hot Fingers’.

The charity, set up in February 2012, to maintain and improve the fabric of the 12th church, has gone from strength to strength in its fundraising efforts. To date, trustees and members have organised a fashion show, a poets and poems event, a harvest supper, and two ‘alternative’ Christmas celebrations to which the local community have responded with enthusiasm.

So much so in fact that they have managed in just under two years to raise a jaw-dropping £25,000 - thanks to members’ donations, contributions from functions and major funders - to install underfloor heating and a water supply, as well as restore the original Victorian tiled floor in the church. The Friends are now in the process of completing a car park and toilet facilities subject to more fundraising income.

Chairman Martin Dickinson said: “The Summer Ball was a ‘first’ venture of its kind or us but we received a fantastic response from the local community and sponsors alike.

“We are moving forward with our plans and are hoping to attract even more members to come on board and help us to restore and improve our lovely village church which is an important centrepiece of the community. Our membership stands at 84 currently and it would be great to get to 100 this year.”

The next events in the charity’s calendar are a talk by two eminent World War II experts on September 15, the Harvest Supper in October and Christmas Celebration.

LESLEY MILLER