OPPORTUNITY FOR YOUNG PEOPLE TO HELP SAVE ST JOHNS
read the criteria carefully and if interested and eligible please apply on savestjohnschurch@hotmail.co.uk as soon as possible
St John’s Church Preservation Group currently
has the capacity to urgently recruit 2 Outreach Coordinator / Outreach
Team Leaders. The posts will entail helping to organise and lead
an outreach team of up to 10 outreach workers on a daily basis. The outreach
workers will support the work of St. Johns Church Preservation Group and
will be representative of the group within the local community. The posts
will suit 18-24 year olds who have been in receipt of Jobseekers allowance
for a period of between 39-51 weeks. The roles will be for a period of
6 months, paid at National Minimum Wage, 10.5 days holidays plus statutory
holidays.
An outline of the post is detailed below:
Key duties for the posts would include
organising the daily workplan for the outreach team and ensuring the health
and safety of outreach workers, calling at every house within the parish
to ascertain the level of interest in helping to save St. Johns Church,
documenting and recording the results of all visits, delivering leaflets
and invitations to houses within the parish and helping with fundraising
activities
Successful clients will have a friendly
and polite approach, be presentable and smartly dressed, be articulate
and have strong communication skills (written and verbal), be trustworthy
and able to lead a team by example, have good coordination and planning
skills, be motivated and demonstrate initiative and be willing to undertake
a CRB check.
18th January 2010
TREASURER NEEDED
volunteer role
To help us with:
financial control systems especially with new income streams
online donating through credit cards and paypal
giftaid and legacy giving
applying for and managing grants
tax and vat
The activities will be team based in order to help capacity build the management team and share the work where possible
Please contact Deb Brownlee through savestjohnschurch@hotmail.co.uk
"We have within our grasp the historic opportunity to restore
and re-open this iconic Black Country Church. I urge people to throw
their weight behind the St John's Church Preservation Group and help them to overcome this period of difficulty and keep the fundraising efforts going"
BUT beautiful as the images in the snow are the weather has caused MASSIVE DAMAGE to our fundraising efforts with two events called off so far costing us about a £1000 and fewer visitors to our Saurday stall on Dudley Market (although we are very grateful to the loyal supporters who never miss and come and see us week after week no matter what).
BIG PROBLEM we only have until 31st March to raise the £10,000 for the essential feasibility study "The Future For St John's Church". Without the results of this study we cannot apply to the big funds eg Heritage Lottery and we also need the study to hopefully convince the Church of England that St John's should be re-opened for worship.
We're also still trying to get the money together to start the first round of the building repair works, which we do now have permission to start. For that we need £16,000 towards which we've got about £8,000 - thank you again to everyone who has contributed.
PLEASE help to keep the funds coming in - have a family whip round, have a coffee morning, sell something for us on ebay and donate the proceeds,send us a cheque, collect your loose change. Anything you can think of - Every Penny Counts.
It's all about money now - if we had a magic cheque book the scaffolding would already be up and the feasibility study started but in the absence of that we have to do it the hard way - and that involves every one of us doing something.
Following our email appeal for help in forming a rota for the Dudley Market stall on Saturdays, the very first response we received was from our local MP Ian Austin, who is also the Minister for the West Midlands Region . He will be helping on the stall this Saturday 9th January from 1pm and also on 6th February, 6th March and 10th April.
Please come along and support and bring anything you can that could be a tombola prize.
To check that the market is on tomorrow (in case we're snowed off) check the website or facebook first thing, or ring 0787 119 5042.
2nd January 2010
BACK AT DUDLEY MARKET!
Please donate your unwanted Christmas presents and any bottles, cans, boxes chocs etc for us to use as tombola prizes - needed urgently.
Bring to the market stall any Saturday or ring Maureen on 01384 357634 to drop them off at Kates Hill or arrange collection.
Many thanks
2010 ...first day back on Dudley market today....
Very gratifying today doing the tombola at Dudley Market as loads of our regular supporters turned up in spite of the freezing cold and half the market missing (extended holiday).
Plus we met quite a few new people who had seen the two articles in the Express and Star during the week and came especially to look for our stall. One lady gave a £10 donation and we received a number of other donations. Another supporter called by and has pledged £250. All so valuable in helping us to get the funds together to restore and re-open St John's Church and so very appreciated.
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED TO HELP ON SATURDAYS
Members on email will have had an email request to offer just two hours on one Saturday a month to help create a Saturday 'rota'. Volunteers can be from age 16 (or under if accompanied by a parent) and there is no upper age limit.
We also need a volunteer(or volunteers) with transport to store the tombola and prizes midweek and take them to Dudley Market for about 8.30am on Saturdays and bring them away again between 4-5pm (depends on time of year).
Can you help at all? Email on savestjohnschurch@hotmail.co.uk or leave your name and number with Maureen on 01384 357634
1st January 2010
HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL OUR SUPPORTERS
EIG INSURANCE REPORT DUE PUT THIS MONTH
The crucial report from the Ecclesiastical Insurance Group insurance assessor regardiung whether they will re-insure St John's FOR PUBLIC ACCESS is due 'early in January'. It won't be sent to us, it will be sent to the St John's Parochial Church Council as they are the insurers, but we hope to learn quickly whether we can move forward together to RE-OPEN ST JOHN'S. The survey carried out in January 2008 showed clearly that the nave and chancel were safe, so we are hopeful for a good outcome. Back to the drawing board if not - we'll find out what we have to deal with and get on with it. Next meeting of the St John's Church Steering Group chaired by the Archdeacon is on 9th February so we should find out the result then if not before.
18th December 2009
THANK YOU TO THE HILL TAVERN FOR THE WARM WELCOME
Give the Hill Tavern a try - Watson Green Road, Kates Hill. Open Fire, friendly people, free entertainment Fridays and Saturdays. Rose and Glen aiming to create a real community pub again.
Preservation Group committee members had arranged to meet in the Hill Tavern for a Christmas drink on Fri 18 December. New co-manager Rose delighted us by providing three enormous platters of sandwiches as a treat for us - what a fantastic surprise! Entertainer John Finch also said he would do us a show as a fundraiser in the New Year. We also received donations from customers including one gent who gave £10 in memory of relations buried at St John's. A great evening and chance for us to relax for a change.
6th December 2009
WEBSITE BACK IN ACTION
Regular visitors know that this website has been 'down' for several days. This was, according to the message, because we had exceeded our daily traffic for a free website. We have now upgraded to 'Zoomshare Plus' which should solve the problem and we're sorry for the inconvenience to those we know have being trying to access the site.
3rd December 2009
AYNUK DONATES HIS DESK TO RAISE FUNDS FOR RESTORATION OF ST JOHN'S
Our good friend 'Aynuk' who raised £1200 for our funds in August with his 'Aynuk's Black Country Show' has made another wonderful gesture to help save St John's where he married his lovely wife Mollie 50 years ago. He is re-organising his house and has donated his DESK WHICH HE HAS USED FOR 45 YEARS for scripts, performance plans and poetry writing. The desk will be auctioned by Astons Auctioneers, Tower Street, Dudley on 23rd January - more details to follow.
Aynuksaid
"I thought hard about what to do with the desk. If it can help you to raise funds for St John's Church Preservation Group I shall be very pleased".
1st December 2009
FIRST PUBLIC MEETING OF ST JOHN'S CHURCH STEERING GROUP
Tuesday 1st December
55 people attended the meeting, on a freezing cold night and in a freezing cold Parish Hall. The meeting was ably chaired by the Archdeacon, who also stayed on for quite some time after the meeting and met with the grounds helpers and other Preservation Group members. John Dentith, Secretary of the Diocesan Advisory Committee explained the redundancy procedure and the faculty procedures. Brian Wentworth, churchwarden, explained that he had met with the Church Insurers and a report was expected in January regarding the re-insuring of the church building. Councillors Waltho and Ali, and Preservation Group chair Deb Brownlee presented points regarding the listing of the building and the feasibility study on behalf of Alan Taylor of English Heritage who was unable to attend due to illness. Councillors Ali and Waltho both congratulated the Preservation Group and Steering Group and confirmed their own interest in the project and in harnessing whatever help is available from DMBC. Deb Brownlee spoke of the need for local fundraising first and foremost as big grants do not always come through and it will be the coffee mornings and other local effort that will provide a steady income. The need to get the feasibility study started was emphasised strongly. Teas were served by Maureen Marsh and May Whitehouse.
27th November 2009
FABULOUS NIGHT WITH DODICI CORDE GUITAR DUO
Dodici Corde Guitar Duo - marvellous
We were treated to an evening of the most beautiful, rarely heard music last night. Wonderful musicianship and knowledgable and entertaining historic narration. The evening raised £150 for restoration funds, a great contribution and big thanks to Dodici Corde Guitar Duo and Quality Hotel for sponsoring the evening. We've asked them to perform again, in St John's once re-opened and talked about the possibility of a music festival. In the meantime check out their website and don't miss the chance to go and see them if you can www.dodicicorde.co.uk contact on dodicicorde@yahoo.co.uk
19th November 2009
IAN SLUDGE LEES EVENT RAISES ANOTHER £350
Many thanks to Bill Etheridge for organising this event including obtaining the raffle and auction items,distributing the posters and selling most of the tickets. Thanks to all who came along, the stewards of Sedgley Conservative Club and the cooks who created the magnificent supper. Also to Graeme Browne who was top bidder in the auction paying £50 for one lot, and to Kurt the incredible raffle ticket seller. £351.15p raised towards restoration funds - a brilliant result and we are very grateful for all Bill's efforts and hard work. His parents also helped on the night.
18th November 2009
MEETING OF ST JOHN'S CHURCH STEERING GROUP - FEASIBILITY STUDY CONSULTANTS SELECTED
The
Archdeacon of Dudley who chairs the St John's Church Steering Group said,
"We were very
impressed with the energy which BHB brought to their presentation, their track
record in working with churches in communities like Kates Hill and their
commitment to working in close partnership with us on this exciting
project."
6th December 2009 -
We are now able to say that the company we hope to work with is BROWNHILL, HAYWARD BROWN of Lichfield - consulting architects who worked on the restoration of Bilston Town Hall, various aspects of Trentham Gardens, Walsall Arboretum and much more.
The
Steering Group will now step up efforts to raise the necessary finance to pay
for the study, estimated to cost around £10- £15,000 and which includes advice on architectural changes, future management, whether there is sufficient demand to re-open the building as a church, energy efficiency and issues around the graveyard.
15th November 2009
WE'RE TWO YEARS OLD TODAY
ST JOHN’S CHURCH
PRESERVATION GROUP
INAUGURATION MEETING
THURSDAY 15TH NOVEMBER
2007 6.30PM
ON THE CAR PARK OF THE OLD SCHOOL
HOUSE, ADJACENT TO ST JOHN’S CHURCH, ST JOHN’S ROAD, KATES HILL
WELCOME
CHEERLEADING BY THE PEDMORE PANTHERS
AGENDA
1.Welcome and Introductions
2.Opening Prayer
3.Guest Chair opening comments
4.Apologies
5.Adoption of the Constitution
6.Election of Officers
7.Report from the chair
8.Treasury Report
9.27th November meeting
10.Any
other business
11.Close
of formal meeting
The St John’s Church Foundation
Stone Prayer:
This
is the prayer that was said by Rev WM. Henry Cartwright, Vicar of Dudley, when
the foundation stone for St John's Church was laid on Saturday 20th October
1838 and is used as the St John’s Church Preservation Group committee prayer.
We would like to share it with you today.
ALMIGHTY GOD, Father
of all mercies, we do this day most heartily and devoutly adore and magnify thy
glorious name, for having put into our hearts the will to undertake the work
which we have now begun to thy honour and glory.
And we most humbly
beseech thee to continue thy grace and favour to us, and to give us strength to
persevere unto the end.Prosper thou the
work of our hand upon us, merciful God.
O prosper thou our
handy-work, and grant that this church may indeed be the gate to thy eternal
kingdom to all who shall come to worship within its walls.
Be thou, O Lord God,
ever with them.Let thy fatherly hand ever
be over them.May the mediation of thy
blessed Son for their souls be effectual in thy sight; and may thy Holy Spirit
guide them through all the changes and chances of this mortal life, and lead
them safely to thy kingdom in heaven.
Grant this, O merciful
Father, for the sake of thy dear Son, our Lord and only Saviour, Jesus
Christ.Amen
We still use this prayer at the start of each St John's Church Preservation Group committee meeting and find the words as relevant as ever
So what have we achieved in our first two years?
Redundancy procedure halted (for now)
Grounds mainly cleared
St John's Church Steering Group set up chaired by the Archdeacon of Dudley
We successfully applied for St John's to be listed and it is now an English Heritage Grade II listed building
We asked for more surveys to be carried out on the building - this was done in January 2008 and showed that the church is repairable and need not have been shut to the public
Now have permission to start work on essential repairs if we can raise the money
Feasibility study brief written - consultants to be chosen
Asked for the building to be re-opened part time - agreed subject to risk assessment and insurance
UPDATE ON THE RE-OPENING - This was agreed in principle at Steering Group on 6th October 2009. We are going to try and get the necessary access to the building for the risk assessment and insurance check sorted out in Steering Group this week 18th November 2009 when we will also be meeting with the shortlisted feasibility study consultants.
KEY ISSUE Please help us with fundraising - donate, run a coffee morning, have a family whip round, do a sponsored event, collect your loose change, have a garage sale - EVERY PENNY COUNTS
Next full update public meeting: Parish Hall, St John's Road Tuesday 1st December 2009 6.30pm ALL WELCOME Chaired by The Ven Fred Trethewey Archdeacon of Dudley
12th November 2009
AMAZING NIGHT WITH PHILIP SOLOMON
Listen to Philip live on WCR 101.8fm Mondays 7-9pm and check him out on facebook
100 people turned out in torrential rain to enjoy a great night of clairvoyance with Philip Solomon (Express and Star 'Psychic Agony Uncle') at Club Dudley. Philip was as accurate as usual and amazed the audience with his insight and knowledge.
Including a surprise donation of £200 brought in by facebook member Stephanie Markham on behalf of her family (family whip round) the evening raised a wonderful £650 towards restoration funds.
Our thanks go to venue sponsor CLUB DUDLEY, to PHILIP SOLOMON who paid for the advertising and donated books for the raffle, to all who donated raffle prizes and to everyone who helped by selling tickets, room layout, raffle ticket selling etc etc. Especial mention to Julie Pugh and Pedmore Panthers for being such a lively crowd and supporting the evening so well. 16 new members also joined the group during the evening WELCOME.
12th November 2009
MEETING WITH ANDREW MOTTRAM, NEWLY APPOINTED HERITAGE BUILDING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT OFFICER Diocese of Worcester
(Post funded by English Heritage, Diocese of Worcester, Dudley Community Partnership and other charities)
Andrew Mottram will be in Dudley as part of his Initial Visits to Dudley Churches on
THURSDAY 12TH NOVEMBER 2009
He would very much like to meet members of the St John's Church Preservation Group for an informal chat.
If you could possibly come to the QUALITY HOTEL at 1.45pm on THURSDAY 12TH NOVEMBER for a short meeting (around 45 minutes) this would be appreciated.
WHAT HAPPENED 24 people attended including Preservation Group members and former St John's Church congregation members, Councillor Steve Waltho and a member of the DMBC Historic Environment Team. Andrew asked each person present for their opinions and feelings and everyone spoke eloquently and from the heart. He could not have been left in any doubt about the strength of feeling there is to Save St John's and we appraised him of our hopes and ideas for the re-opening of the building which first and foremost includes re-opening it as an Anglican church. He pointed out the costs and difficulties and we were able to say we have already considered these and already have a 10% reserve policy in place against future repair/renewal costs. We also outlined a possible formula to achieve harmony between those wishing to stay in the Parish Hall and those wishing to worship in the church building and a Christian mission plan to help rebuild congregation numbers. We felt he had listened to what we had to say and he carried on at just after 2.30pm to meet with the St John's Congregation and the PCC.
THANK YOU TO QUALITY HOTEL FOR OFFERING TO HOST THIS MEETING AND PROVIDE THE REFRESHMENTS
6th November 2009
EVENTS AND FUNDRAISING IDEAS
This is what will Save St John's Church and we all have to 'Work Together' to get enough of it
Check out our Meetings/Events page and be creative with your own fundraising ideas
Monster Month for events - THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS CLUB DUDLEY, QUALITY HOTEL, PHILIP SOLOMON, DODICI CORDE GUITAR DUO TO BILL ETHERIDGE FOR ORGANISING 19TH NOVEMBER EVENT AND CAROL AND LISA, 7TH DUDLEY SCOUTS
Thursday 12th November Philip Solomon - Club Dudley
Thursday 19th November Ian Sludge Lees and Charity Auction - Sedgley Conservative Club
Thursday 26th November Dodici Corde Guitar Duo - Quality Hotel
Sunday 29th November Friends United Event. Joint event with 7th Dudley Scouts 2-7pm Scout Hut, Watsons Green Road, Kates Hill
Tuesday 1st December 6.30pm St John's Parish Hall Public meeting of St John's Church Steering Group, chaired by the Archdeacon of Dudley update "The Future for St John's"
PLEASE TRY TO SUPPORT AT LEAST ONE FUNDRAISING EVENT AND THE MEETING WITH THE ARCHDEACON IS A MUST
Fundraising ideas - could you run eg
a coffee morning
family and friends party
Garage Sale
Or any other idea to RAISE FUNDS to help Save St John's Church
5th November 2009
NOT AS CLOSE AS WE THOUGHT The doors to St John's Church will stay closed for a while longer Risk assessment and insurance check not carried out yet
Proposed appointment for risk assessment and meeting with EIG Insurance representative, churchwarden and risk assessment team on 5th November was not able to go ahead.
EIG Insurance and risk assessment team remain on standby for a date and time to be agreed with the churchwarden.
The proposal made by St John's Church Preservation Group to re-open St John's Church on a limited basis for cleaning, airing and fundraising was accepted on 6th October 2009 by the Archdeacon of Dudley (head of the St John's Church Steering Group) subject to risk assessment and insurance.
2nd November 2009
HOW CLOSE ARE WE TO RE-OPENING ST JOHN'S?
Inside St John's. Picture taken January 2008
"On this basis we would have
been more selective as to how much of this building could continue to be used
safely by the congregation.In our view
the nave, chancel and aisles present no hazard, but we would have excluded the
use of the galleries due to faulty floor boarding and the dangerous areas noted
above.The upper vestry also presents
some risk."
INSPECTION on the 3rd and 4th January 2008 (Rev E) ASTAM GBC CONSULTANCY
At the last meeting of the St John's Church Steering Group chaired by the Archdeacon of Dudley we put forward a proposal to re-open St John's Church on a limited basis, for fundraising, cleaning and airing.
The proposal was accepted subject to risk assessment and insurance upgrade.
We have carried out the external risk assessment and now await confirmation of access to the interior so that we can carry out stage one of the interior risk assessment. The insurer Ecclesiastical Insurance Group are being most helpful and will attend on the same day.
If the access can be arranged this might all take place this Thursday 5th November - if not we hope it will only be postponed to the earliest possible date.
Thanks are due to Councillor Steve Waltho who is familiar with risk assessment and Mr Christopher Robinson of Swindon Local History Society who is using his NEBOSHH qualification and experience to help and guide us with the risk assessment process.
2nd November 2009
ROSE AND FAMILY LEAD THE WAY AGAIN
Rose and family were the FIRST to run a coffee morning for St John's Church Preservation Group. Now they have been the FIRST to run a jumble sale for us and the FIRST to run a family Halloween fancy dress party as a St John's Church fundraiser.
Rose handed in £115 to us today, a MAGNIFICENT achievement and a great boost to our funds.
Thank you to all the family and friends who contributed and we hope other families reading this will feel inspired to see what they could do to join you as 'family fundraisers'
29th October 2009
HOW MUCH ARE WE PREPARED TO CHANGE ST JOHN'S IN ORDER TO SAVE THE BUILDING?
Can we keep it original and financially sustainable?
We have looked at various case studies of how churches have been altered and adapted in order to find a future and found many success stories. However this can involve drastic changes including in the case of one church we looked at the removal of almost the whole interior.
We have discussed at length how far we as a Preservation Group would be prepared to go to Save St John's.
We have decided that saving an outer shell is not what we are about in spite of the fact that this is currently the fashion and we acknowledge that in some cases that is better than losing the building altogether.
Unless feedback from our members is radically different we are now looking at recommending developing the undercroft if possible for the commercial enterprises which will help to make the building financially sustainable and try to leave the main worship area historically intact. We spoke to a conservation specialist some time ago about developing the undercroft and we were told it was a fairly straightforward thing to do.
Near identical sister church St James has an undercroft which is where their events and fundraisers are held. The main body of the church (also Grade II listed) is untouched. It is possible that the St John's undercroft area could be even larger as it runs almost the length of the building.
This conversion will add to the project cost but we think it will be worth it in the long run if we can keep the church intact.
If we can re-open the church building as soon as possible it can start to generate funds again and work on the undercroft would not need to affect the main body of the church.
Please send us your thoughts as soon as possible on this most important issue.
23rd October 2009
MODEL OF ST JOHN'S CHURCH
We would very much like to have a scale model of St John's Church to take with us to shows etc for promotional purposes. If you have the skills to make such a model please contact us through savestjohnchurch@hotmail.co.uk or 0787 119 5042
21st October 2009
TOMBOLA PRIZE THANK YOU'S
We have to set up about a hundred tombola prizes a week and so many people are helping us by donating prizes
Sometimes we have run really low on prizes and then we have had some really emotional moments as people have literally gone shopping and come back and handed us carrier bags of prizes. These moments are priceless and keep us going and raise our determination not to waste all this goodwill. St John's Church will be re-opened!
Bring donations to Dudley Market every Saturday or ring Maureen on 01384 357634 to make a different arrangement
The tombola raises around £80 a week on average for restoration funds. We are very grateful to the people who support the tombola every week and also for the donations put into 'the bucket'
It's about time we gave a mention to the generous people who are providing us with tombola prizes to keep us going every Saturday on Dudley Market.
Margaret Whiting and Betty Ruston from the SJCPG committee who are purchasing prizes and raffle tickets every week out of their own money
Rose Jewkes who continually collects prizes for us, and through Rose a big thanks to Kelly, Laura's friend from work and the Carmen family and co
Dudley Market traders who are donating items from their stalls every week
Thorntons and Steakmaster Meats
The gentleman who saw it in the Bugle and brings us things every Saturday including very expensive bottles
New helper Andrew who brought everything in from his house that he could think of also new helper Laura Owen who did the same thing.
Joyce Aston who has contributed so generously most weeks
Wendy Meredith (also for the tea urn), Isobel Connelly, Sidney Evans, Rachel Williams, May Whitehouse, Maureen Marsh, Marion Rushton, Anne Wassell, John Stenson's sister
All the casual gift givers who don't even leave a name.
20th October 2009
WE ARE NOT HAPPY WITH FACEBOOK (to say the least)
21st October - now sorted - we're live again. Facebook unable to say exactly what guideline we broke but if we do it again that's it. Very clear! But at least they responded quickly and we can keep in touch with people again. Facebook has been a great way for us to get to know people. We now have 613 friends on StJohnsChurch Preservation Group (4 months old) and 286 members on our group Save St John's Church, Kates Hill, Dudley (4 weeks old). A big thanks to reporter Heather Large of the Express and Star, see page 19 tonight 21st October, fabulous write up about our facebook experiences (except for this one, thank goodness).
Facebook have disabled our account, we think for having too many friends. When you consider the number that you see on some accounts our 600 friends doesn't look so much. We have appealed and can only hope that a human being reads the email not a computer programme. They have done this at a particularly sensitive time as we have a facebook friends get together this Friday night 23rd October from 7.30pm at the Quality Hotel, THIS WILL GO AHEAD. Our facebook group Save St John's Church, Kates Hill, Dudley is still live so please join that if you are one of the friends that they've just crashed out.
19th October 2009
CHECK OUT OUR FORTHCOMING FUNDRAISING EVENTS
EVERY SATURDAY - Dudley Market. Tombola, tickets, information, donations and loose change collections accepted. PLEASE BRING US GOOD QUALITY TOMBOLA PRIZES ESPECIALLY BOTTLES
Friday 23rd October - Facebook and Black Country Gob friends and anyone else who would like to come along - Quality Hotel (Ward Arms) arrive from 7.30pm Saturday 24th October 2-4pm Jumble sale, Surestart, Watsons Green Road Thursday 12th November, Philip Solomon (Pyschic Medium), Club Dudley Thursday 19th November Ian Sludge Lees (Tizwaz) and Charity Auction, Sedgley Conservative Club Thursday 26th November Dodici Corde Guitar Duo. Quality Hotel.
More events to be posted please check out our MEETINGS/EVENTS page for full details
17th October 2009
FACEBOOK FRIEND DONATES £726
Facebook friend Emma Lorimer of Tividale has been following our efforts to Save St John's very closely, and without telling us (she wanted it to be a surprise, and it certainly was), had started off a tuck shop at her place of work, Virgin. She handed us a cheque for £726 on Dudley Market on Saturday, a most incredible boost to our funds. She was hoping to get it to the £1000 but unfortunately has been made redundant so handed over the proceeds to date. We are so grateful to Emma and her colleagues at Virgin. This is the sort of thing that makes us even more sure that "Working Together To Save St John's Church" we will most definitely DO IT.
16th October 2009
FIRST EVER JUMBLE SALE AND BRIC A BRAC TO BE HELD ON OUR BEHALF TO RAISE FUNDS
Saturday 24th October
2-4pm
Surestart (Estate Office) Watsons Green Road Kates Hill Dudley
Free admission
Rose Jewkes and her family were the first to run a coffee morning to raise funds for St John's and now they are the first to run a jumble and bric a brac sale as a fundraiser for us.
They have collected a large amount of donated items which will be sold in the Surestart base (the former Estate Office) on Watsons Green Road corner of Brewery Street.
There will be no admission fee and everything will be priced to sell.
Please come along and support this family run event to raise funds for the restoration of St John's Church, Kates Hill.
Rose and her family have connections to St John's spanning several generations and they are determined to help us save their family church.
16th October 2009
BRILLIANT FUNDRAISING SHOW AT THE DUDLEY EX SERVICEMEN'S CLUB
Friday 16th October 2009
A fantastic evening was enjoyed by all
The Ex-Servicemens Club did us proud with a most marvellous evening of entertainment. Performers Tony Marks, Darren D and Gerry Llloyd were on really top form and had to sing several encores at the end.
The £10 meat voucher donated by Steakmaster Meats was auctioned for £21. The Bingo raised £48, the raffle raised £89 and the total for the evening including some generous individual donations was £323, a really excellent contribution to funds. The performers were all performing free of charge and tribute really must be paid to their professionalism and generosity.Tony Marks also organised the running order and the auction. Tony Timmins, an Ex Servicemen's committee member has offered to join the Preservation Group as Ex Servicemen's representative, and this will strengthen our links with the club which has been so generous with us. The general feeling was that this was an evening we should repeat, and the warmth and enthusiasm for St John's Church was evident to all.
16th October 2009
INCREDIBLE GESTURE FROM BATHAMS BEER CLUB
We didn't even know there was a Batham's Beer Club, but they have run an event for St John's Church Preservation Group at the Lamp Tavern, Dudley and sent us a cheque for £65. Massive thanks to Steve Mills and friends!
6th October 2009
POSSIBILITY OF LIMITED RE-OPENING OF ST JOHN'S CHURCH BUILDING
ALSO
PUBLIC MEETING WITH THE ST JOHN'S CHURCH STEERING GROUP CHAIRED BY THE ARCHDEACON OF DUDLEY Tuesday 1st December 6.30pm St John's Parish Hall Open to all To be discussed:
Work of the Steering Group
Redundancy Process
Listing
Feasibility Study
Church Access
Permission to start restoration work (faculties)
Fundraising
Questions will be taken from the floor
Speakers: The Ven Fred Trethewey, Archdeacon of Dudley, John Dentith, Diocesan Advisory Committee, Alan Taylor, English Heritage, Deb Brownlee, St John's Church Preservation Group, Councillor Steve Waltho, Councillor Shaukat Ali, Churchwardens.
Following a Preservation Group proposal put to the St John's Church Steering Group headed by the Archdeacon of Dudley at the meeting on 6th October that St John's should be re-opened on a limited basis for cleaning, airing and to help with fundraising.
It was agreed that this may be possible subject to risk assessment and insurance.
The Preservation Group are arranging the risk assessment and the PCC are checking with the insurers.
The Archdeacon the Ven Fred Trethewey said the following:
" We have discussed in the St John's Church Steering Group what is involved in opening the church on a regular basis and prepared for further public meeting. We have also shortlisted the consultants with whom we will have further discussions regarding the feasibility study."
Deb Brownlee, Chair of St John's Church Preservation Group:
"We put forward a proposal to the Steering Group
asking for limited re-opening to enable us to promote the restoration
fundraising effort and also to clean and air the building and monitor for
further damage. We are pleased that the proposal was received in a very
positive manner".
Professor Carl Chinn, Patron of St John's Church Preservation Group:
"The re-opening of St John's Church even on a
limited basis shines a beacon of hope for
everyone who shares a passion not only for this historically important Church but also all the heritage of the Black
Country and beyond. I urge people to come even more strongly behind the St
John's Church Preservation Group now and help them raise the necessary funds to
make sure that full re-opening and restoration become a reality."
The public meeting on 1st December 2009 will be the first opportunity for the public ask questions and get a full update since November 2007.
The idea of a further public meeting was mooted by the Archdeacon to the Steering Group and was unanimously agreed. The meeting will be chaired by the Archdeacon.
****
We in the Preservation Group urge everyone to get this date in your diary and ensure that we show that the public support and interest is still there.
****
5th October 2009
BLACK COUNTRY GOB - NEW FRIENDS FOR ST JOHN'S CHURCH PRESERVATION GROUP
6.10.09 Black Country Gob have now set up a Forum section for us after we expressed reservation about being able to maintain and monitor such a facility - a massive thing to undertake on our behalf and all in support of Saving St John's Church. Take a look and post a comment (you'll have to register first but it only takes a few seconds)
Black Country Gob, the online Community Forum for the Black Country, has been in touch with a view to offering support to our efforts to Save St John's Church.
They are coming along in a few days time to take photographs and get more details to set up a 'St John's Church, Kates Hill' section on their extensive website.
Have a look at Black Country Gob - you'll need to register to view the whole site but it only takes a few minutes and you won't regret it - the site is fascinating.
Also check out Black Country Gob and Gobby Gob on facebook
5th October 2009
DUDLEY MARKET - SPONSORSHIP REQUEST AND TOMBOLA PRIZES REQUEST
A special thank you to all the Dudley Market Traders and local shops who have been donating tombola prizes and making us feel so welcome and 'part of the family'
SteakMaster Meats, Churchill Precinct have donated a £10 meat voucher for use in a raffle
When it gets too cold, have a fight. Maureen and Andrew, Dudley Market, Saturday 3rd October
We started taking a stall on Dudley Market on Saturday 22nd August (with Ned Williams supporting us on that day) and we haven't missed a Saturday since.
We have found being on the Market very useful for getting to talk to people, and the response to our tombola and donation tubs has been very generous averaging just over £80 per week towards restoration funds.
However despite the best efforts of Councillor Steve Waltho on our behalf we cannot get out of paying Dudley Council for the market stall, as we do not yet have a charity number (we are an unincorporated charitable association but not moved into full registration yet).
Moving into full registration is quite complicated and time consuming and we are at the start of the process with help from the Dudley Council for Voluntary Service and The Association of Preservation Trusts.
We therefore have two appeals regarding our Saturdays on Dudley Market:
1. We need really good tombola prizes - bottles, cosmetics, unopened gift packs, chocolates, DVD's, big clean soft toys - anything nice that will attract attention 2. We want to ask people to sponsor a Saturday stall - the cost is £21.90 or slightly less if we have to take an inside stall. Please either email, ring Deb on 0787 119 5042 or just come along any Saturday if you can help with either of these appeals. New helpers also needed especially as the weather gets colder and we will need to be able to take breaks.
Sunday 4th October
EXCITING TIMES FOR US ON FACEBOOK
See our latest facebook photo album here: 1st October pictures of St John's Through Facebook we have gained interesting new contacts, raised awareness and recently we have had tombola prizes donated
In addition to our usual facebook site StJohnsChurch Preservation Group (just under 500 members) we have now set up a facebook 'group' which is a sort of online 'club'.
The group is called Save St John's Church, Kates Hill, Dudley and was put live at 9pm on Saturday night 3rd October.
By 11am Sunday morning there were 64 members and we hit 100 members at exactly 9pm on Sunday night ie in the first 24 hours.
This was a very gratifying outcome and we're grateful to everyone who responded to our appeal to 'see if we could do it' ie get 100 members on the first day.
Having a 'group' makes it easier to send out messages and invitations.
Please join us on facebook if you aren't already a member.
Friday 25th September
PHIL JAMES CONCERT
Note the guitars in the background. Phil also played the violin and accompanied a selection of marvellous singers.
Phil and friends came along and gave us the most spectacular, wonderful and amazing exhibition of young musical talent that any of us had seen. Unfortunately, for reasons we cannot understand, attendance for this show was low but nevertheless £150 was contributed to funds. We hope to involve Phil again and to stay with him as his career develops - he will certainly be a credit to our area and a shining example to other young people. Our thanks go to venue sponsor the Quality Hotel, Phil James and family, Ellie and family, Simba and the other singers who gave their time freely
Saturday 19th September
A WARM WELCOME IN TIPTON - TIPTON CANAL AND COMMUNITY FESTIVAL
We took a stand, with our tombola and information boards, near to the Tipton Slasher statue as we had requested. We received the most amazingly warm reception in Tipton and very high awareness of St John's, Kates Hill. The tombola raised just under £100 towards restoration funds.
We were running out of tombola prizes at one point and SJCPG member Rose Jewkes saved the day by driving back up to Kates Hill and returning very quickly with two boxes of qood quality tombola prizes.
Robert Hazel, Manager at Tipton Library, donated a lovely A3 laminated Tipton Slasher poster which is now in use on our boards.
Wednesday 16th September
FIRST EVER COFFEE MORNING HELD FOR US
Rose and some family members at our Grade II listing celebration party on 13th June 2009
In a most amazing gesture SJCPG member Rose Jewkes decided to invite family members for tea and home baking and ask them to donate an amount towards the restoration of St John's Church. In just over an hour she raised £30 which was an excellent contribution to funds. She has also collected numerous items for use on our tombola.
THANK YOU to Rose and family, you were the first to do this and we will ask others to follow in your footsteps.
Rose and family have also donated a Mculloch strimmer which we've had serviced and will be using on the church grounds.
2nd September
PRESERVATION GROUP BACK ON BRIDGE RADIO
Bridge Radio is backing the campaign to Save St John's Church by promoting our events on their What's On, and interviewing us on a regular basis. Listen in on Thursday 3rd September 3pm to hear musician Phil James being interviewed regarding his forthcoming show on our behalf on Friday 25th September at the Quality Hotel, Dudley. You can listen online 102.5fm and send messages on the Shoutboard to let us know you are listening in. Feedback like that is always appreciated by us and the presenter, Mark Williams.
27th August 2009
FABULOUS AYNUK NIGHT
Aynuk, Beryl Briscoe, Lee Wilson, Marlene and Emma Rollason (Dolly Allen) gave the most marvellous performances to support us at Club Dudley on 26th August. All the performers were working free of charge and the venue was sponsored by Club Dudley.
Over 200 people attended, including Stan Wright who came over from Capetown, South Africa. VIP Guests included Geoff and Sue Hill, Ned Williams with his daughters and partner Terri, Philip Solomon with his wife Kath, Mark Williams of Bridge Radio with his wife Pam, Chris (Editor) and Gail Smith, of Village Voice, Ex Servicemen Alan Bissell, Des Stokes, John Deane, Gordon Willetts and others, Mick and Phylis Coyle. Also Mick Pearson editor of the Black Countryman Magazine, the publication of the Black Country Society.
The evening raised around £1200 which is the best result ever from a fundraising event and is a massive boost to the St John's Church waterproofing appeal which needs £16,000 before work can start.
Andrew Turton from the Express and Star with photographer Steve stayed as long as they could and interviewed as many people as they could manage, until they were called away. A fantastic write up about the event with six photographs appeared in the Express and Star on 27th August.
Deb Brownlee, on behalf of the St John's Church Preservation Group paid tribute to the media support received in the Vote of Thanks, and all the performers were presented with Thank You gifts. Mollie and Aynuk were presented with flowers to celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary, which was the reason for Aynuk putting the show on - he and Mollie were married at St John's in 1959.
A wonderful evening, never to be forgotten.
22nd August 2009
A SUCCESSFUL TRIAL DAY AT DUDLEY MARKET
Mick Coyle and Ned Williams rattling the tins for us
Following a suggestion by Ned Williams, we took a stall on Dudley Market to promote the work of the group, get the message across that we need funds to Save St John's and collect donations.
Ned Williams (author, historian and immediate Past President, Black Country Society) and Mick Coyle (winner, Frank Foley Award) came along to support and encourage us.
Local people donated an amazing just under £250 to funds during the day and we gained two new volunteers.
During the week following our funding crisis press appeal we also received a cheque for £100 and an offer to run a charity auction on our behalf estimated to raise about £500.
We'll be back on Dudley Market very soon weather permitting possibly even this Saturday coming, and please keep the donations and fundraising offers coming as they desperately needed if we are going to Save St John's.
21st August 2009
RUN AN EVENT OR FUNDRAISER FOR US
This is all that is needed to Save St John's Church now
The sooner we can get the funds in the sooner the scaffolding will be up and the doors re-opened.
"Working Together To Save St John's Church"
We are appealing on the website and in the press etc for individuals, groups, clubs, pubs, places of work to run fundraising events on our behalf. We need as many people as possible to really get their shoulders behind us and help us raise the necessary funds.
Our patron Professor Carl
Chinn has backed the call for more help. Professor Chinn, "I am sure that
the people of the Black Country will support the St John's Preservation Group
in its aim to bring this historic church back into full use. Even in these hard
times I feel certain that the folk of this region will find innovative and
dynamic ways to raise the funds that are needed.”
We have one good offer of an event in already - watch out for an evening of entertainment and charity auction in Sedgley, details to be announced.
Could you run a table top or jumble for us, or go to the car boot regularly for us? We have the offer of bric a brac and books to sell but no-one to undertake the selling.
Ring 01384 357634 (Maureen) or email savestjohnschurch@hotmail.co.uk
20th August 2009
TOMBOLA PRIZES NEEDED
Good quality tombola prize donations needed - especially bottles.
Our tombola has proved to be very popular and is a very good fun way of raising funds.
We need more tombola prizes,good quality please and bottles are always popular.
Please ring Maureen 01384 357634 or drop off at Tiwana by St John's anytime seven days 9am to 10pm. Thank you.
20th August 2009
BRIDGE RADIO TODAY THURSDAY 20TH AUGUST WITH AYNUK
DUDLEY MARKET SATURDAY 22ND AUGUST WITH NED WILLIAMS AND MICK COYLE
VISIT US on Dudley Market THIS SATURDAY. Ned Williams (author and historian) and Mick Coyle (War Veteran and first manager of the Churchill Precinct) supporting. Purchase or reserve Aynuk tickets and pick up information.
20th August 2009
MORE WEEDKILLER NEEDED
Thank you to Dudley Girls High School Association who haved donated some Bayer Glyphosate. This will be used in the area of the Marion Richardson Grave at St John's Church. Marion Richardson of handwriting, art and penal reform was the youngest ever teacher at Dudley Girls High School and went on to revolutionise the teaching of handwriting and art in schools.
THANK YOU to those who have donated Glyphosate based weedkiller to help us with the Japanese Knotweed.
In some areas we are managing to seriously weaken the Knotweed by continual cutting but other areas are so thickly infested that in spite of the regular cutting we have no choice but to spray. The spray works well, and we feel now that we will achieve full clearance much more quickly than we thought. It will certainly take two to three years in total but hopefully not the five years we originally thought. Thereafter it will just be a monitoring excercise to be vigilant against any new plants appearing.
We need to ask urgently for more donations of Glyphosate based weedkiller - the product shown on the left is best but any Glyphosate will do - including own brands.
Please ring Maureen on 01384 357634 to arrange a meeting to hand over your donation, or drop off in Tiwana Superstore by St John's anytime 9am to 10pm seven days.
If you get chance go for a walk round the grounds - some of the cleared areas are looking really good now.
We haven't managed to get any new grounds helpers yet - a source of big disappointment to us - but the hardworking few are making a big impact, slowly.
18th August 2009
PRESERVATION GROUP FUNDING CRISIS - LISTING STOPS DONATIONS
We have experienced a critical drop in donations since we announced that the St John's Church building was Grade II listed on 21st May 2009.
People have perceived that the church is saved and it's all over. Nothing could be further from the truth, listing brings no money and does not even provide full protection from demolition.
We need more help and support than ever as the church authorities are working closely with us to find a future for the building but it is up to local people to raise the funds.
To obtain full details as in the press release issued 17.8.09 email to savestjohnschurch@hotmail.co.uk and request a copy of the Funding Crisis Press Release.
To listen to Marlene and Ned Williams on the Philip Solomon Show WCR 101.8fm listen to the repeat on Friday afternoon 21st August 3pm. Listen online if you can't get reception.
8th August 2009
TICKETS FOR THE AYNUK'S BLACK COUNTRY SHOW with Lee Wilson, Marlene, Beryl Briscoe and introducing Emma Rollason as 'Dolly Allen'
Listen to BBC Radio WM 95.6FM this Sunday 9th August (or use the listen again service) to hear Aynuk promoting the show on the Andrew Peach programme
This is our biggest fundraising event so far and we really want full house if possible. The venue seats 300 so this should be a great night. Top artists are giving their time free of charge and Aynuk is keen that his and their efforts will raise a significant amount towards the restoration of the St John's Church building. The event will be held on Wednesday 26th August 7.30pm at Club Dudley, Waterloo Street, Dudley.
Tickets at £10 each are on sale at The Aynuk and Ayli Cafe in Netherton Sofi's Cafe in Castle Street, Dudley (opposite Dudley Council Plus) Reserve by telephone 01384 357634 Reserve by email savestjohnschurch@hotmail.co.uk OR just turn up and pay on the door on the night
8th August 2009
CHECK YOUR EMAIL JUNK BOXES
Hotmail are going a bit over the top in their efforts to weed out senders of SPAM email. They are making life difficult for groups such as ours who use hotmail to keep in touch with members. They have seriously limited the number of emails that can be sent at a time, insisting on a ridiculous amount of account verifications and labelling perfectly legitimate emails as junk on a fairly arbitrary basis as far as we can see.
Please don't delete your junk or trash boxes without checking for emails from St John's Church Preservation Group first and we would really appreciate replies so that we know you have received our updates and invitations.
If your email address has changed please let us know straight away, as mailing to incorrect email addresses is one of the items that triggers their system.
6th August 2009
FIRST DONATIONS OF WEEDKILLER
We have received our first donation of four boxes of Bayer Super Glyphosate to help us with the Japanese Knotweed problem THANK YOU Please see our appeals page for more details and HELP IF YOU CAN GROUNDS CLEARANCE HELPERS also needed Tuesday mornings, Thursday evenings, Saturdays all day. Other times by arrangement.
6th August 2009
BBC RADIO WM
Sunday 9th August 8.50am listen to BBC Radio WM 95.6FM live/ online/listen again. Deb Brownlee and Aynuk are booked to be interviewed by Andrew Peach regarding the Aynuk's Black Country Night Show
3rd August 2009
PHILIP SOLOMON SHOW TONIGHT MONDAY 3RD AUGUST
Didn't happen - transmitter failure - watch out for new date But Marlene got to have a good look at St John's Church and a tour of the grounds and interesting graveyard stories instead so the time wasn't wasted
Marlene - performing with Aynuk to raise funds for the restoration of St John's Church on Wednesday 26th August at Club Dudley
Deb Brownlee of St John's Church Preservation Group will be on the Wolverhampton City Radio Philip Solomon show this evening at around 8.20pm with MARLENE the marvellous Black Country Comedienne, to promote the AYNUK BLACK COUNTRY SHOW on 26TH AUGUST in which Marlene is appearing. Listen online if you can't receive reception.
Go to our meetings/events page for full details of the Aynuk show
Philip's radio show every Mon, 7-9pm. WCR 101.8 FM, W-ton
City Radio or www.wcrfm.com. Recent guests:
Rustie Lee, Don Powell, Dave Berry, Marty Wilde, Derek Acorah, Lee
Everett, Sonny West, Hans/Alexandra Holzer, Noddy Holder, Susan Jeffers, Geno
Washington, Madeline Bell, Paul Young, Alvin Stardust, Lesley Smith, Mike
Winters, Uri Geller, Gary Bushell, Freddie Starr, Russell Grant, Jaki Graham,
Bev Bevan, Sue Ricketts, P J Proby, Mickey Rooney ....
27th July 2009
LIFE BEGINS AT 169 SHOW
The show was a triumph for all concerned. The show had to be rewritten four times during the day as performers dropped out due to illness (two due to swine flu). Other performers stood in at very short notice and performed superbly without any rehearsal time. NED WILLIAMS was the most wonderful compere, combining his historical knowledge with sardonic humour to great effect, and all in full Victorian costume complete with top hat. Our war veterans - Mick Coyle, Mac, Gordon Willetts, Alan Bissell and the other gentleman brought the standards and gave a wonderful military display. How can we ever sufficiently thank the performers; NAC Theatre, Rhoda Stocking, Annette, Jill and Freda the line dancers, Dudley Performing Arts for the Breakdancers, Roger Herrington, Stan Proudman, Ken Moore, and unexpectedly, from the Ex-Servicemen's Club, Pippa. He wasn't booked but sang a great version of Achy Breaky Heart.
Grateful thanks to all and especially of course to the Ex Servicemen's Club for providing the venue free of charge. Proceeds; Not all ticket money in yet but about £200 PLUS a very generous donation from NAC Theatre £50 so the evening contributed around £250 to restoration funds. A totally wild night resulting in a very good contribution to funds.
22nd July 2009
STEERING GROUP MEETING WITH ARCHDEACON
A meeting of the St John's Church Steering Group chaired by the Archdeacon of Dudley The Venerable Fred Trethewey took place last night. Another successful meeting with all parties working well together.
More detailed report on the Steering Group Page of this website.
19th July 2009
HELP US WITH THE JAPANESE KNOTWEED PROBLEM
Donate some weedkiller
We
have followed the advice received very carefully and we now need to
start spraying our Japanese Knotweed. We only intend to clear the areas
actually stopping access to graves as the birds and butterflies love
this plant.
The products we need are anything containing Glyphosate:
The best one is Bayer Super Strength Glyphosate but that is quite difficult to obtain. The
expert at Bayer has very kindly told us that the following will also do
the job: Any own brand glyphosate or super glyphosate eg from B&Q,
Homebase, Wilkinsons.
Glyphosate
is the ideal product as children and pets do not need to be excluded
from the area as soon as it is dry (only a few minutes on a warm day)
and it biodegrades into the soil allowing immediate replanting.
These
are expensive products and it will help us a lot if people will
purchase a pack and donate to us. We need absolutely loads. Please
drop off at Tiwana in High View Street, open seven days 9am to 10pm and
leave us a note of your name and email and/or address. Or post to our
usual address or if you are local we will arrange for someone to pick
up from you.
Many thanks for helping with this, it will all help to keep our funds intact towards the building repairs.
11th July 2009
MARY ANN MASON STORY at Earls High School
"The Mandrake, The Murder and The Gallows Pole" (The story of Mary Ann Mason) by Steve Hyett
Performed by NAC Theatre Company
Mary Ann Mason was murdered by her ex boyfriend
Joseph Meadows in the Sailors Return Pub, Kates Hill, in 1855. Her
gravestone at St John's is the only one in the country that shows that
she was murdered, and the name of the murderer.
Our grateful thanks to Steve Hyett for scripting this story as a dramatic play, and to NAC theatre for creating an excellent production. We hope to create another opportunity to showcase this piece later in the year.
The cast taking their final bow on the Mary Ann Mason murder story (only for now, we hope) Pictured: Liz Parks,Mike Smith, George Armstrong, Toni Alonzo, Adam Hyde, Nigel Westwood-Burgess, Steve Hyett, Carly Raxster, Philip Liptrot, Nicole Johnson, Richard Hill, Alex Gibney, Levi Brown
11th July 2009
NETHERTON PARK FUN DAY
A great day in spite of the rain, very well attended. We spoke to quite a few people and the tomobola team Margaret, Betty and Marion mad over £100 for funds which was a lot more than we expected when we set up in pouring rain. We also made a good link with Dudley Lions, more to come on that later.
9th July 2009
CHAMPIONS CHURCH HELP ON GROUNDS AGAIN
Phil Bamber and team in action, Christians providing practical help
Champions Church Community Action Team helped at St John's again today, they made a beautiful job of the corner near the William Fisher grave. Thank you Phil and team. Tim Jackson was on Freebodies carpark at the same time giving out the free foodbags. Services at Champions are Monday nights and Sundays and are well worth a visit; lively but thoughtful, and communion is taken by all who wish to share in the body of Christ without any prior requirement ie to be confirmed.
Have a look at their website http://www.championschurch.org.uk/gettingtochurch.html
3rd July 2009
NED WILLIAMS TO COMPERE 'LIFE BEGINS AT 169' FUNDRAISING EVENT ON 27TH JULY
Ned Williams, well known local author and historian has confirmed he will be available to compere the fun historical show 'Life Begins at 169' (title devised by Ned Williams) which takes place at the Ex Servicemens Club, Hall Street, Dudley on Monday 27th July at 7.30pm.
The event celebrates St John's being 169 years old on 27th July and that the building now has a new life beckoning as a Grade II listed building.
The entertainment features song, music, dance, comedy, poetry and drama.
2nd July 2009
URGENT HELP NEEDED APPEAL
1. We URGENTLY need a TREASURER to take over this important role, weekly meetings and lots of development work to do with us
2. We URGENTLY need more regular helpers on the grounds work - Tuesdays 10am, Thursdays 6.30pm, Saturdays 10.30am PLEASE COME AND HELP
For any of the above contact Deb on 0787 119 5042 or Maureen on 01384 357634
30th June 2009
ST JOHN'S CHURCH PRESERVATION GROUP WEBSITE
Zoomshare have been in touch and unfortunately their system had only stored the 'crashed' version of our Home Page.
This is rather bad luck however in re-writing the Page we will also redesign the site so please bear with us as the site will be a bit of a mess until the work is completed.
Many thanks for your patience.
3th June 2009
CHAMPIONS CHURCH VISIT AND WOLVERHAMPTON CITY RADIO WITH PHILIP SOLOMON
Our trip to Champions Church proved a great success. They are so well attended that it is standing room only - all chairs taken.
The minibus to Champions Church will be running again from the Freebodies on Monday 6th July 6.30pm and anyone is welcome to come along.
We will also be arranging visits to other churches in the Dudley area and will publish details.
Philip Solomon of Wolverhampton City Radio proved himself to be well researched about St John's Church Preservation Group and an extremely warm and comprehensive interviewer. He gave Deb Brownlee of John's Church Preservation Group around 20 minutes valuable airtime to promote our events and to talk about the campaign so far. He is wonderful presenter and we recommend listening to his programme on Monday evenings 7-9pm 101.8FM or listen online.
We hope to go on his programme again later in the year, hopefully close to the 12th November show that Philip is doing for us as a Pyschic and Medium, at Club Dudley.
29TH JUNE 2009
CHAMPIONS CHURCH
AND WOLVERHAMPTON CITY RADIO WITH PHILIP SOLOMON
To come with us as guests to a service at Champions Church TODAY come to the Freebodies Car Park for 6.30pm to go on the Champions Church minibus.
Our appearance on Wolverhampton City Radio Philip Solomon Show has been brought forward by a week and is TONIGHT 8.15pm. Deb Brownlee will represent. 101.8FM or LISTEN ONLINE
26th June 2009
ANOTHER FABULOUS VARIETY NIGHT ORGANISED BY GREG STOKES
Link to facebook photo album to follow soon
An amazing 70 people turned out through floods and torrential rain to enjoy another great Save The Church Variety show organised for us by Greg Stokes.
Performers Greg Stokes, Brendan Hawthorne, Louise Stokes (no relation), Geoff Stevens and Des Stokes gave us a fabulous evening and we can never thank them enough for the support they have given our cause - all performers working without fee.
A word for the Quality Hotel - they had to ask us to change room as they needed the big room for another function - they found us two alternative rooms ,and supplied free squash as the rooms were upstairs and a long way from, the bar. The stairs were awkward for a few people and we are sorry for that but it was a lot better than having to cancel the show. QH really great sponsors and supporters.
Provisional amount raised by the evening - around £250.
24th June 2009
FACEBOOK - ALMOST 1OO FRIENDS IN LESS THAN A WEEK
To see some of the photos we have lodged on Facebook without needing to be a Facebook member follow these links:
It's not personally intrusive unless you are happy to disclose information about yourself.
19th June 2009
WE CATCH UP WITH OUR PATRON PROFESSOR CARL CHINN AT JOHN HEMINGWAY BOOK LAUNCH
Maureen Marsh, Vice Chair, Professor Carl Chinn, Patron, Deb Brownlee, Chair, St John's Church Preservation Group
John Hemingway (left) Archaelogical Officer for Dudley MBC, Peter Suddock Chief Executive Dudley Zoo, Cllr Pat Martin, Mayor of Dudley
John Hemingway, Archaeological Officer for Dudley MBC has produced the most amazing book 'An Illustrated Chronicle of Dudley Town and Manor'
A twenty year labour of love, the book takes us from the Anglo-Saxon period through to the current day and is astonishingly well researched and comprehensive. It's a wonder that it only took twenty years. If you are interested in the history of Dudley purchase this book and be prepared to be fascinated and absorbed.
The launch of the book was held at Dudley Castle and speeches were made by John Hemingway, The Mayor of Dudley and Professor Carl Chinn
'An Illustrated Chronicle of Dudley Town and Manor' published by MFH Publishing ISBN 978-0-9562264-0-2
St John's Church is featured, as is our architect William Bourne and the St John's Church School. There is a list of St John's Vicars from1840-2004.
Professor Carl Chinn will be speaking at a charity fundraiser for St John's Church at an event to be arranged next year.
18th June 2009
ST JOHN'S CHURCH PRESERVATION GROUP IS NOW ON FACEBOOK
This was the suggestion of SJCPG member Lee Massey, and then made easy by Mike Nolan who invited us onto his site hence prompting the need to set it up!
Hundreds of photos of St Johns already posted onto our Facebook site. To access the site search from your Facebook on St John's Church Preservation Group, or send an email asking us to invite you to be a 'friend'
We need actors, singers, dancers, comedians, anybody who would like to have a go at a five minute slot at our 27th July 'Life Begins at 169' celebration event.
Come and have a go, this will be a great night - see Home Page for more details or email savestjohnschurch@hotmail.co.uk for an event plan (if you can call it that).
We want youngsters as well as adults.
13th June 2009
PARTY ON THE CAR PARK
CELEBRATION OF THE GRADE II LISTING
WHAT A GREAT NIGHT!!
Di, Liz, Ade (founder Vice Chair St John's Church Preservation Group, MP Ian Austin, Nick, Rachael, Shelley
"The Party People"
St John's Church is the only building to be listed by English Heritage in Dudley MBC area this year. The last building to be listed in Dudley MBC was the Grange, a private house in Stourbridge, in April 2008.
Since 1947 287 buidings in Dudley MBC have been listed, St John's is the 288th.
Nearby there are two listed buildings on Dixons Green Road and one in Watsons Green Road.
140-150 people attended including Councillor Shaukat Ali and Ian Austin MP
Also local history author Ian M. Bott who loaned us a precious and rare St John's Church Annual dated 1902
Geoff Hill MBE attended with his lovely wife Sue Hill, and other members of his family and gave us our first ever grant cheque, for £200 - see news item below
Local people mucked in and provided food including home made cakes and bread pudding, barbecue, also the power supply and tea and coffee.
Young Cameron litter picked the carpark for us beforehand
Margaret and Barry did all the cooking and supplied the gas barbecue and gas
Marylyn was cake and squash server
We did a party disco for the children
Betty, Margaret and Marion ran out of prizes on the tombola, that's a first for us
High View Fish Bar and Tiwana Superstore sent gifts of bottles of wine over to us.
May was the end of evening litter picker and we all mucked in to clean up at the end.
Thanks to everyone who donated and helped.
The weather was perfect!
13th June 2009
OUR FIRST EVER GRANT CHEQUE - GEOFF HILL CHARITABLE TRUST
For details of Geoff Hill Ltd and the Geoff Hill Charitable Trust
The first grant application we have made was to local businessman Geoff Hill through his charity the Geoff Hill Charitable Trust, which supports over 150 local organisations.
The GH Trust is funded by 10% of the net profits of Geoff Hill Electrical in Amblecote plus donations from Geoff himself.
Geoff has given us a grant of £200 towards the cost of preserving St John's Church and may be able to donate more later on. He handed it to us personally at our Celebration Party on 13th June.
This is a most valuable and much needed contribution and we are so delighted to get such immediate and total support from Geoff Hill, who has been and still is a local hero for many small groups such as ours.
12th June 2009
TREASURER NEEDED
Annette Eardley our secretary is valiantly carrying the Treasurer job as well but the job is going to get bigger and bigger and WE NEED A TREASURER who can work with us through all sorts of new territory, charity registration, tax and vat etc and produce accurate figures weekly, plus take charge of the banking.
Can you help? We can't say this won't be a demanding role because it probably will. It's a voluntary role, obviously, as we all are.
Contact Deb if interested or want to know more 0787 119 5042
11th June 2009
CHAMPIONS CHURCH SHOW CHRISTIANITY IN ACTION
Phil Bamber and some members of the Champions Church CAT Community Action Team
"Community based, people focused and God centred, we exist to see people from all walks of life become champions in life through the life-changing power of Jesus Christ."
What a breath of fresh air in terms of Christianity in Dudley.
Shown here five of the eight volunteers who came out from Champions Church to help us with grounds clearance work. They worked really hard "Even Tim".
They may be able to give us some more time in a few weeks and we look forward very much to their next visit.
or join with us for a visit there on 29th June, see news item below.
9th June 2009
CHAMPIONS CHURCH VISIT - DATE NOW SET
CHAMPIONS HELP WITH GROUNDS CLEARANCE
Anyone wishing to come with us as guests to a service at Champions Church and who needs transport should meet with us at 6.30pm on Monday 29th June on the Freebodies Car park, High View Street, Kates Hill, Dudley. Champions Church are sending their minibus.
They are also giving us some voluntary help with the grounds clearance and helping us with equipment. Champions Church have welcomed us and linked with us when we asked them for help and we are very grateful to them for their dynamism and generosity of spirit.
We remain totally committed to re-opening St John's as an innovative Anglican Church which will embrace the modern with the traditional, and intend to learn much from the open, creative, friendly and welcoming approach found in successful places of worship.
3rd June 2009
SEE US ON THE VOLUNTEER BUS
DUDLEY MARKET PLACE
SAT 6TH JUNE 11.30-2pm
Thanks to the Dudley Council for Voluntary Service for offering us a slot on the Volunteer Bus.
There will be entertainment and Dudley Hospital Radio, and we'll be giving leaflets out and chatting to potential volunteers and supporters.
Come along and see us!
Update: Although the rain was terrible it turned out to be a most productive day as several extremely useful new contacts were made which will benefit us greatly.
1st June 2009
FEASIBILITY STUDY "The Future for St John's"
NEWS
The sealed bids from the four firms of consultants invited to tender to carry out this work were opened by the Archdeacon of Dudley in his role as Chair of the St John's Church Steering Group, in the Steering Group meeting on 1st June.
Two of the companies are to be invited to meet the Steering Group for further discussions, provisional date for this set at 20th July 2009.
The original budget estimate for the feasibility study was £10,000 this has now been increased to around £15,000 but may be decreased again when final decisions are made.
The feasibility study will use experts to look at the architectural changes needed to incorporate community use in the church and will consult widely with local people and organisations. Recommendations to be made must include details of long term sustainability and legal and planning compliances.
The feasibility study is an essential precursor to bids to the Heritage Lottery Fund and other potential funders. They won't consider any bid if sustainability cannot be shown.
The St John's Church Preservation are to raise the funds to pay for the study so please donate towards the cost if you can.
24TH May 2009
SUPPORT FROM THE TOP FOR OUR LISTING SUCCESS
Ian Austin MP and Government Minister for the West Midlands Region congratulated us on our success with the listing application as follows:
“I am delighted that St John’s Church has received listed status, it is a great victory.
This result would not have happened if local people had not got together and formed this group, the work of local campaigners such as Deb Brownlee has been fantastic.
St John’s Church represents a very important part of Dudley’s heritage and landscape.
It is one of the most prominent buildings in our town and one of the first sights people see when visiting Dudley, it’s a beautiful building and embodies the local history that I for one am so proud of.
However there is still much to be done to secure the future of this building and that is why I am calling on local people to help the St John’s Church Preservation Group in anyway they can.”
22nd May 2009
THE NEWS WE'VE BEEN WAITING FOR
St John The Evangelist, Dudley
Grade II listed
"Both as a social historian and as patron of the St John's Church Preservation Group I am delighted that this historic church has been listed as a Grade II building by English Heritage. This listing recognises that the church is of special interest historically and architecturally and it emphasises that every effort should be made to preserve it. The challenge is now on to secure funding to ensure that the building is not only saved but also that it can become a wonderful facility for local people. I hope that everyone concerned with this building can work together to realise this dream of the Group, whose members I congratulate on their achievements so far."
Professor Carl Chinn, MBE. Patron St John's Church Preservation Group
St John's Church has now been granted Grade II listed status.
This means that we can move ahead to identify the best funds to apply to as a LISTED PLACE OF WORSHIP.
Meaning of Grade II listing by English Heritage
"Grade II are of special interest, warranting every effort to preserve them"
Grade II listing does not provide total protection from demolition but it does widen our scope to get funding for the repairs.
THANK YOU to EVERYONE WHO HELPED US WITH THE LISTING APPLICATION INCLUDING EVERYONE WHO SUPPLIED PHOTOGRAPHS OF THE INTERIOR
CELEBRATION PARTY
Saturday 13th June 2009 from 6.30pm onwards. The Car Park of the Old School House next door to St John's Church. Bring your own bottles, plastic glasses and folding chairs. Musical entertainment and singing.
URGENT APPEAL FOR OUR CELEBRATION PARTY
Does anyone have a good gas barbecue they would be willing to bring along. Cooks also needed.
Contact Deb 0787 119 5042 or Maureen 01384 357634
Also needed Large Party Gazebo in case of rain. Please note it can't be pegged down as that would damage the tarmac so weights will be needed.
22nd May 2009
£500 DONATION TO ST JOHN'S PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL (PCC)
St John's Church was at the start of the church redundancy procedure until late 2007/early 2008 when the procedure was halted pending further investigations.
If the church redundancy had gone through the local PCC would have been relieved of the cost of running St John's, which costs money even when empty, for insurance and lighting and any emergencies.
The congregation now worshipping in the St John's Parish Hall are the people who have to pay for these costs.
As it was mainly the emergence of the St John's Church Preservation Group which caused the redundancy procedure to be halted, hence keeping these costs at local level, in March 2009 we made a £500 donation from our funds towards the running costs of St John's. Maintenance of the church is within our charitable objects.
We made the donation on goodwill grounds and also in an effort to foster good relations between the PCC and the Preservation Group.
We will continue to fight against the redundancy process being resumed, as if the church is made redundant it is no longer a 'church' and can be sold, developed or demolished.
Also some of the major funds we can apply to depend on the building being a place of worship and a listed building.
21st May 2009
SUCCESSFUL AGM
Around 60-70 people attended our AGM at the Quality Hotel, Dudley and heard fabulous presentations from Ned Williams, Alan Taylor of English Heritage and Steve Sedwell the Conservation Architect who was in charge of the last survey at St John's. We were very uplifted and encouraged by what they had to say. Guest Chair Keith Massey oversaw the election of the committee; Chair Deb Brownlee, Vice Chair Maureen Marsh, Secretary and Treasurer Annette Eardley, members May Whitehouse, Betty Ruston, Margaret Whiting, Joan Greenaway, Marion Rushton, Jim Ruston, Sidney Evans, Julie Pugh, Lisa Billingsley, Marylyn Hawker.
Brilliant musical entertainment was provided by Phil James on the piano and guitar, and singer Ellie. They are performing a full show for us on Friday 25th September see Home Page.
19th May 2009
IAN AUSTIN MP
Ian Austin MP has been a supporter of St John's Church Preservation Group since we were formed in 2007. He has taken a great interest in our work.
St John's Church Preservation Group Committee has today given this statement to Ian Austin:
We thank you for your valued support and appreciate all you have done to help us with our campaign to Save St John's Church, Kates Hill, Dudley.
Your responses to our requests for help or information have always been prompt and considered. We are particularly grateful for your efforts to progress our application for St John's Church to be granted listed status.
We look forward to continuing to work with you in the future. Deb Brownlee, Chair on behalf of St John's Church Preservation Group 19th May 2009
17th May 2009
CHURCHES OF THE BLACK COUNTRY - TALK - DON'T MISS
Tim Bridges of the Victorian Society will be giving a talk about 'Churches of The Black Country' at St Bartholomews, Wednesbury on Tuesday 19th May in aid of their restoration appeal following lead theft.
All enquiries to Margaret Winsper on 0121 502 5506.
Tim Bridges is an acknowledged expert on Churches and Church History and is an incredibly good and interesting speaker. He has been a great help to St John's Church Preservation Group.
The book shown to the left written by Tim includes information about St John's, Kates Hill.
16th May 2009
THE DRUNKS MUST BE MADE UNWELCOME
It took a concerted effort last year by St John's Church Preservation Group members and the local Police and Community Police to clear the Lychgate of the drunks who were previously using it as a drinking den and worse. Several including the one who was the worst offender tried to come back to the Lychgate today. One of our members reported their presence to a committee member immediately, and the Police were notified. The Community Police attended very quickly and spoke to the persons concerned, who were left under no illusion that they were not welcome and would not be tolerated.
Dudley Police have worked very closely with us to ensure the grounds and church are safe for all to visit. The grounds are patrolled very regularly and some of the Community Police were helpers in the grounds clearance work. Patrols are now going to be stepped up again.
If you see any anti social behaviour going on around the church please ring Dudley Police straight away on 0845 113 5000 or ring 999 if more urgent response needed.
Together we have been improving the reputation of St John's Church dramatically and people have been flooding back as they have felt safe to do so. We can't allow these complete nuisances to spoil it again.
"Working Together To Save St John's Church"
15th May 2009
ST JOHN'S CHURCH CONSERVATION ARCHITECT TO ATTEND AGM
The full survey of St John's Church which took place in January 2008 was conducted by Conservation Architect Steve Sedwell. He knows almost every inch of St John's, inside and out.
Steve will be at the St John's Church Preservation Group AGM on Thursday 21st May at 7.30pm. He will support English Heritage speaker Alan Taylor during that part of his presentation. Steve would like to meet our members and will be able to answer questions.
Steve Sedwell has also been commissioned to oversee the first works on St John's, the waterproofing works for which we are currently trying to raise the funds.
This may be a unique opportunity to see top experts English Heritage and our Conservation Architect together so do come to this meeting. Everyone is welcome.
14th May 2009
ST JOHN'S CHURCH FEASIBILITY STUDY BRIEF SENT OUT TO TENDER
St John's Church Preservation Group along with the St John's Church Steering Group headed by the Archdeacon of Dudley have spent several months preparing a Feasibility Study Consultants' Brief.
The Brief is headed "The Future For St John's"
and the objective is
"To identify future uses for a re-opened St John's Church Building and identify in outline how it would be funded both at the beginning and in the long term".
The study is divided into six sections:
1. Worship and Community Use - to look at re-opening St John's as a place of worship with additional community facilities
2. Building Alterations - how the building would have to be altered
2a. Energy Use and Environmental Considerations
3. The churchyard - adaptations needed to be suitable as a green space and for guided tours - responsibility issues
4. Running costs and funding - how much, how fund it
5. Alternative options - if it is not re-opened as a church
6. Future management - depending on what is agreed for the future.
There is a wide consultation brief which includes the local community and the worshipping congregation in the St John's Parish Hall.
We now await tenders and meetings with the potential companies who may carry out this work.
13th May 2009
NED WILLIAMS LEADS BLACK COUNTRY SOCIETY EVENING WALK
' THE ASCENT OF KATES HILL'
To join Black Country Society and obtain details of the meetings and weekly walks
www.blackcountrysociety.co.uk
The evening of 13th May saw a group of Black Country Society members led by Ned Williams exploring Kates Hill including St John's Church.
Ned and Black Country Society members outside St John's Lychgate
Heading off down Caroline Street, looking at the view of Dudley Castle
Deb Brownlee gave a brief talk on behalf of St John's Church Preservation Group at St John's Church, mentioning architect William Bourne, Tipton Slasher, Mary Ann Mason,The Hillman and Terry families, Julia Hanson (Hansons Beer) and of course the grounds clearance and restoration appeals.
Deb Brownlee addressing BCS members at St John's Church. Note the old St John's Church School in the background, also a William Bourne building.
13th May 2009
MARY ANN MASON STORY DRAMATISED
One of the most famous graves at St John's is that of Mary Ann Mason, the 17 year old barmaid at the Sailors Return who was murdered by her jealous boyfriend Joseph Meadows in 1855. He was hanged at Worcester Gaol and her gravestone is believed to be the only one in the UK that shows the name of the murderer.
Following a link made between the St John's Church Preservation Group and the Nac Theatre Group the story has now been dramatised and will be performed on 10th and 11th July at Earls High School (7.30pm) and 4th July at Himley Festival - possibly also the 5th July at Himley.
Other venues and more details to be announced but please put the above in your diary.
10th May 2009
USE OF WEEDKILLER SPRAY IN THE GRAVEYARD
LOOK OUTS NEEDED
We know that the people concerned probably think they are being helpful but can we ask all visitors to restrict the use of weedkilling sprays to their own family grave.
Someone has weedkiller sprayed two areas which we have been carefully tending to get those areas to grass over. The grass in those areas is now dead.
In addition to wrecking our attempts to convert weeded areas to grassed areas it also makes it look as if the Preservation Group is acting irresponsibly on the grounds. There is abundant wildlife and birdlife to consider which is why if we use any spray at all it will only be in very small carefully chosen areas where it is actually impossible to cut or dig up the unwanted growth.
Asking all members or visitors on site to ring 0787 119 5042 or 01384 357634 straight away if you see anyone using weedkiller.
Many thanks.
NB We are still in need of extra helpers on the grounds on Saturdays anytime from 10.30am, please come and help if you can.
8th May 2009
CHAMPIONS CHURCH LINK
The Champions Church minibus was on the Freebodies car park (100 yards away from St John's Church) last night from 7-9.30pm. They were giving away about 70 bags of free food (donated by Sainsburys).
Champions Church have long been on the SJC Preservation Group list as essential people to talk to. They are having a new church built in Netherton, to seat 850 people, and have featured in our arguments that people do want to worship as Christians and that there are successful churches out there.
We talked to Tim, the New Members Pastor for Champions. We walked over to St John's graveyard and visited his grandparents grave which fortunately after grounds clearance is now visible again.
We will be booking the Champions Church minibus to collect a group of us from the Freebodies to attend a service at Champions as guests - date to be confirmed, probably about 3/4 Monday evenings time. Email if you wish to join us, minibus seats 15.
"They came and got us" which is what has to be done if serious about building a congregation
5th May 2009
GRAHAM FISHER BRIDGE RADIO - CANALSIDE EVENT
Bridge Radio Presenter and Canal enthusiast Graham Fisher is a good friend of St John's Church Preservation Group. WATERWAYS ENTHUSIAST RELEASES NEW BOOK; OFFICIAL LAUNCH AT PRESTIGIOUS CANAL EVENT
Inland waterways enthusiast and Immediate Past Chairman of theStaffordshire & Worcestershire Canal Society (SWCS) Graham Fisher has released a book detailing his stewardship of the Society between 2005 and 2008. Out of the Chair(ISBN978-0-9548781-1-5) is available now at £9.99 via usual outlets or direct from Sparrow Publishing (details below).The book is to be officially launched at the Summer Gathering of SWCS at Bratch Locks, (Wombourne) over the weekend of May 23rd/24th, where the Society will be celebrating its Golden Anniversary. Out of the Chair will be available at a ‘show special’ price throughout the weekend.
‘My allotted three years as Chairman of SWCS coincided with a torrid time in the wider waterways movement’ says Graham. ‘Out of the Chair is a compendium of contemporary notes I wrote for the Society magazine which record a period of significant changes as they happened and the Society’s response to them. I believe it will prove of interest to enthusiasts and historians alike and so I am delighted to officially launch it at this special time of the Society’s own 50th birthday celebrations.’
4th May 2009
BRILLIANT YOUNG MUSICIAN CONFIRMED TO PERFORM AT AGM
15 year old Philip James has been confirmed to perform a few pieces at the St John's Church Preservation Group AGM on 21st May. He is a pupil at a local secondary school.
Philip plays piano, keyboard, violin, guitar, church organ, clarinet and is also a brilliant drummer. He also composes his own material and already has 6 CD's published.
He will be performing a whole concert evening for us later in the year, and anyone who hears him play at the AGM will definitely want to come to his show. The AGM can only show a tiny taste of the versatility and musical skill this young man.
His girlfriend Ellie is a fine singer and also a member of two theatre groups - he will accompany her for just one song at the AGM.
Philip donates £1 from the sale of his CDs (£5 each) to raise funds for Cancer Research UK.
3rd May 2009
PHILIP SOLOMON EVENT
Philip Solomon, Wolverhampton Express and Star Psychic Agony Uncle, Spiritualist Medium, (General and Trance), Psychic, Astrologer, Healer, Writer, Investigator of the Paranormal, TV and Radio, has been confirmed to do a fundraising evening for us on Thursday 12th November 2009 at Club Dudley. Tickets £6/£7/£5 for groups of 10. See Home Page for more details. email will come to members shortly.
3rd May 2009
APPEAL FOR EMAIL ADDRESSES
Calling all members to supply an email address in order to receive regular updates and invitations to events.
stating your name and address and asking to go on the email circulation list.
Please note we do not post any information out except by email due to the high postage costs.
3rd May 2009
APOLOGY TO ARCHDEACON OF DUDLEY
Deb Brownlee chair of the St John's Church Preservation Group has apologised to the Archdeacon of Dudley following an AGM postponement notice emailed to Preservation Group members on 14.4.09 which referred to the St John's Church Preservation Group AGM as the 'St John's Church AGM', which was brought to his attention. The error occurred due to a mistake in the writing of the email.
The St John's Church Preservation Group AGM is on Thursday 21st May at the Quality Hotel, Dudley, 7 for 7.30pm and we urge all members and their guests to attend.
2nd May 2009
SUCCESSFUL INFORMATION EVENT
We were very lucky with the weather which was beautiful all day, essential for an open air event. Most of our visitors also had a look at the grounds clearance and were very impressed. We obtained some new members and helpers and several donations.
A very worthwhile exercise, obviously appreciated by our visitors, some of whom had travelled quite some distance. We will repeat this event and also try to improve our visibility to visitors on Saturdays.
Display of posters 'Save St John's Church' drawn and painted by local children
24th April 2009
COME AND MEET THE PRESERVATION GROUP ON SATURDAY 2ND MAY
We will have a St John's Church Preservation Group information table on the carpark of the Old St John's Church School Car Park (at the end of the church wall)
Saturday 2nd May
1-4pm.
Please come along and get details about our forthcoming AGM, purchase tickets for our next few events including the Aynuk's Black Country Night, join the group, donate to help with the restoration of St John's, volunteer to help, collect labels for loose change containers and please bring us your email addresses.
There is also a table top sale event in the Parish Hall on the same day, hosted by the St John's Church Parochial Church Council, raising funds for the Parish Hall, from 2 - 4pm, refreshments available.
Why not have a look at the clearance work completed around the grounds during your visit - helpers still needed every Saturday from 10.30am.
20th April 2009
NEW HELPERS ON GROUNDS BUT TOOLS STOLEN - appeal for help
We were delighted to welcome new helpers to the grounds clearance at the weekend - we were working on site Saturday and Sunday 18th and 19th April - usually we are only there on Saturdays due to work commitments.
And Maureen is back with us after a prolonged break due to a knee injury.
The age ranges of the helpers so far is 8 years to 70 years, so please do come along and join in, any Saturday from 10.30am (sometimes earlier).
BAD NEWS some of our essential tools have been stolen - both hand secateurs, the loppers and the brush cutter.
Also, our one fork and two spades are now very battered, and we have demolished one of our two grass rakes.
APPEAL
If you have any of the above equipment that you no longer need and could donate, or if you could donate the cost of replacement equipment we would be very grateful.
We also need a much bigger wheelbarrow,and a shovel suitable for scooping up.
PERSON AND STRIMMER NEEDED
If anyone is willing to come on with their own petrol strimmer there are areas that are now desperate for strimming. We have been promised two petrol strimmers but both are being set up for use at the moment and there will be some delay.
Contact: Deb 0787 119 5042 if you can help
16th April 2009
HIGH VIEW FISH BAR
NEW OWNER PROMISES TO CONTINUE SUPPORT
High View Fish Bar, situated a few hundred yards away from St John's Church, has now re-opened after extensive refurbishment.
New owner Jim has promised to continue the magnificent support shown to St John's Church Preservation Group by the previous ownership, including a loose change collection box, leaflets and posters.
11th April 2009
GOOD RESULT FOR THE GROUNDS CLEARANCE VOLUNTEERS AND FOR A LOYAL SON
Mr Bill Wilkinson aged nearly 90 years has been unable to find his parents grave for many years, but came along on Saturday 11th April to ask St John's Church Preservation Group volunteers to help.
The grave was around 100 yards away from where he remembered it being located, but turned up intact, undamaged and still perfectly legible. We cleared it for him and also the unmarked grave of his Uncle immediately adjacent.
Mr Wilkinson has been involved with St John's Church for many years, and 80 years ago was paid 3d to mow the grass! He also sang in the choir. Friends may remember him as "Bill" or "Wilkie".
