Tag: #BeaminsterTeamChurches

For Whom Do The Church Bells Toll In Broadwindsor?

There are many angry and disappointed village residents in response to the church bells at St. John the Baptist church being ‘silenced’.

The Parochial Church Council met last week and have released the following statement:

The Church Clock Chimes

The church of the Nativity of St John the Baptist, Broadwindsor has a clock which sits in the 15th Century tower, striking the hour day and night.

After a relatively recent failure, the striking had been silent until, thanks to a local engineer, the chimes of the village church clock were to be heard once again. Many local residents were delighted to have the sound of the clock back in their lives. However, some were not as thrilled and have asked whether it might be possible for the sound to be silenced during the night when people are asleep.

Investigations have been made and it is possible to purchase a device which will allow the chimes to be heard by all at certain times of the day whilst silencing them for certain periods of the night to allow the lightest sleepers a peaceful rest.

At the annual meeting of the Parochial Church Council the opinions of parishioners were heard. It became clear that many had views one way or the other on the subject. The PCC heard that the cost of purchasing and fitting the device had been reduced from an initial estimate of over £2,600.00 to a figure just over £800.00. This would enable the chiming of the clock to be set between certain hours of the day/night.

The feeling by many members of the PCC that although the aim of the Church in our villages was to “make Jesus known,” it was not felt necessary to remind everybody of his presence throughout the night.

The members of the PCC took a vote and decided that as a good neighbour the church should for the good of the whole community, and taking all views into consideration it would be most important to compromise, and those who wished to hear the clock chiming should be allowed to do so, whilst those who wished for an uninterrupted nights’ sleep should also be allowed their wish. By a majority, the PCC elected to keep the clock chiming from 6.00am in the morning until 9.00pm at night.

– The Parochial Church Council of Broadwindsor with Blackdown and Burstock.

It truly seems incredible that just one complaint can bring about this outcome when it appears most of the village want the clock to chime throughout the night. (What will happen on Hogmonay? – Editor)

When asked, Rev. Jo Neary commented “I didn’t attend that meeting so I wasn’t part of the discussion But I support the decision of a compromise and finding a way forward that is kind, considerate and makes Jesus known by sharing his values of love, compassion, kindness and mercy. The clock will still chime.”

To contact Rev. Jo – please email revneary@gmail.com

Rev. Canon David Baldwin, who conducted last week’s meeting commented “...I have always turned to the very useful advice from the Council for the Care of Churches (now called the Church Buildings Council). Amongst other points they suggest that you consider your neighbours and be reasonable so as to avoid your neighbours bringing a claim against you and to prevent the possibility of the local authority bringing a prosecution against you on the grounds of noise abatement.”
He added “On dealing with complaints about bell ringing and Clock Chimes issued by the Central Council of Church Bell Ringers they advise that reactions, for example, “the church was here first” and ” we have been doing this for hundreds of years” are not helpful.”

To contact Rev. Canon David – please email revdavidbaldwin@gmail.com

From local poet, Peter Roe:

A Townie goes Wild in Dorset

“Stop the church clock…” he said
“My children lie awake in bed
Disturbed by the chimes in the night
I’m telling you, this place isn’t right

We left the city with planes overhead
Now we have screaming foxes instead
Then the noise from people leaving the pub
I’m telling you this place isn’t any good?

Harvesters working through the night
All those animals fornicating in plain sight
Shit on the field that God awful smell
Creeps into the house makes us unwell

Bloody great, tractors blocking the lane
Refusing to back up drive me insane
Hooting owls and Cockerels crowing at Dawn
This incessant noise is making me yawn

Escape to the Country, get a new life?
It just isn’t worth all this trouble and strife
This village is not the haven promised to me
I’m going back to the city where I can just be!”

Peter Roe – April 2024

Main photo: Ruthie Stevens

#Broadwindsor #Burstock #Blackdown #Drimpton #Hursey #Kittwhistle #Seaborough #Dorset #Village #Community #ChurchBells #StJohnTheBaptist #ForWhomTheBellTolls #PCC #Compromise #BeKind #BeSafe #BeaminsterChurches #PeterRoe #StaySafe

Community Carol Service – Tues. 19th, 6pm

Do go along to our lovely village church and join in the Christmas carols service – the more voices – the merrier 🙂

The Broadwindsor Carol service will take place in church at 6pm on Tuesday 19th December. Come and join in this community event, back in church for the first time since Covid. Hear the story, sing familiar carols and put the Nativity figures in the crib.
There is no midnight mass in Broadwindsor this year, we don’t have the volunteers to host the event late in the evening. However, you are welcome to join in with a service at Stoke Abbott at 10pm on Christmas Eve or 11.30pm at Beaminster. Broadwindsor will host a Christmas Day Family service with communion at 10.30am on Christmas Day.
Wishing you a very Happy Christmas, every blessing, Jo.

Rev Jo Neary
Pioneer Priest
Beaminster Area Team
01308  867816

(N.B.: Rev. Jo’s usual parish working days are Saturday – Tuesday.)

#Broadwindsor #Burstock #Blackdown #Hursey #Kittwhistle #Seaborough #Drimpton #Dorset #Village #WestDorset #BeaminsterTeamChurches #Christmas #CarolSinging #Celebrate #BeKind #BeSafe #StaySafe

Bell Rehearsal Today

It may be Friday, 13th but the joyous peals from the bells of St. John the Baptist church in Broadwindsor can be heard this evening as the bell ringers practice for a village wedding ceremony happening tomorrow afternoon 🙂

#Broadwindsor #Burstock #Blackdown #Hursey #Kittwhistle #Seaborough #Drimpton #Dorset #AONB #Village #WestDorset #BeaminsterTeamChurches #Community #TheBells #BeKind #BeSafe #StaySafe

Farewell Colin Lawrence

Over 150 people from in and around the parish packed into Broadwindsor’s St. John the Baptist church yesterday afternoon to attend the funeral of Colin Lawrence who died on 23rd December 2022.

After the opening hymn ‘All things bright and beautiful‘, Colin’s granddaughter, Amy read a poem –

‘Goodbye Grandad’

Heaven has received another angel,
The night sky another star.
Your life has become a loving memory.
I know you will never be far.
I know you’re watching over me
As my life goes on.
I will treasure the memories I have of you.
I can’t believe you’re gone.
You were a loving, caring grandad
You were there for me a lot.
You will always hold a place in my heart,
A loving treasured spot.
You were really one in a million,
A cut above the rest.
All who knew you would agree.
You simply were the best.
So, Grandad, I will say goodbye.
I love and miss you with all my heart,
But as long as I have my loving memories,
We will never be too far apart.

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Rev. David Baldwin read the Eulogy prepared by his family:

Colin was born on the 2nd May 1937 and was the youngest son of Kathleen & Cyril, & lived at Seavington St Mary, near Ilminster. He had one brother, Keith. He attended schools in Ilminster. On leaving school he worked on a local farm and following this he did National Service in the Royal Air Force, his section being the Fire Brigade Crew. Some of this time was spent in Germany.

One winters night in 1956, Valerie & 3 of her friends were in Broadwindsor Square when they heard the sound of a motorbike approaching from Drimpton Road. On the bike was Colin riding pillion behind his brother!! After their first meeting, Colin continued to cycle from Seavington St Mary to Broadwindsor every weekend as due to work commitments that was the only spare time he had. This was the start of their romance & 64 years of marriage!

In 1958, on Boxing Day, they were married here in Broadwindsor Church whilst Colin was home on leave. There first marital home was in Burstock.

In 1961, Mandy was born. Unfortunately, Colin was away training in Finchley for the Fire Service so he missed this event.

Following his National Service he then worked for Newmans of Beaminster assisting with the digging of boreholes. After this he then drove for South Western Farmers in Crewkerne delivering animal feeds.

In 1966, Wayne was born and Colin was present this time!!

In the late 60s, Colin started driving for Ready Mixed Concrete until he retired, and still remained in contact with former workmates. The family recalls whenever they were on their travels in Dorset or Somerset, Colin would often comment, ‘I‘ve delivered concrete there‘, and would often remember what was being built at the time.

Sadly Colin lost his Brother, Keith, which left a huge hole in his life as they were so close, and used to visit one another on a weekly basis.

In 1971, the family moved to Broadwindsor, then in 2005 returned back to Burstock.

From 1972 – 1992 he served as a Special Constable working from Bridport Police Station. This was a job he enjoyed doing, giving back to the community.

In 1996, Amy arrived which made him the proudest Grandad ever. The family enjoyed many happy holidays together in Cornwall during Amy’s early years. He was so proud of her tennis achievements, which I’m sure you’re all aware of!! Amy can remember how he used to play tennis with her in the road at Burstock, and even in his 60s he could give her a run for her money. He also hit many balls in the neighbours gardens!

Colin loved the outdoors. He loved shooting, beating & gardening. He also played in a skittles team in the Cattistock Hunt League. Colin & Valerie also belonged to Broadwindsor Over 60s club which met monthly, and revelled in the outings. Through these interests he’s made many close friendships. Up until recently he was still gardening for Michelle & Mick at Broadwindsor, and Jackie & John at Clapton, despite having a large garden of his own. He liked helping other people out! He also loved animals. Over recent years has tamed many a stray cat, and they’ve all been given names.

Colin never lost his sense of humour whilst in hospital. On one occasion when Mandy & Amy visited him and the Nurse asked him who they were, he pointed at Amy and said, ‘That’s my Amy’, then pointed to Mandy and said, ‘She’s from Dorset’. It’s clear to say Mandy wasn’t expecting that!!

All of you that are here today will know that Colin was a positive, thoughtful, caring and loving family man, and would do anything to help anyone. However, his time keeping was not always the best, even in his final moments. Mandy and Amy having spent 32 hours by his bedside, the Nurses moved him into a side room, during this short distance with no one by his side he passed away much to the surprise of everyone. Particularly Amy, who uttered words that can not be repeated today!

Colin may be gone but will never be forgotten, and will be greatly missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

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A lovely poignant poem followed:

’Always there’

When you remember me,

Please do not weep.

My body may not be there.

It has chosen to sleep.

 I’m not far away.

My soul lives on,

Looking down, watching over

You and everyone.

And when you feel sad

And life seems so blue,

Just remember

That my spirit has its arms around you.

And on those special days

Times that you wish I could see,

That cool breeze flowing past you…

Well, that will be me,

So don’t be sad.

Have no fear.

God has taken me under his wing,

But I’ll always be near.

I still watch you

Every minute, every day.

My love and soul are with you,

And that’s where they will stay.

Colin exited the church to the music ‘Always look on the bright side of life‘ performed by The Band of Her Majesty’s Royal Marines Commander in Chief Fleet. The Committal took place at Burstock Churchyard.
Afterwards, friends and family gathered together at the Comrades Hall to enjoy a lovely buffet and to share and celebrate their memories of Colin.

Any donations in Colin‘s name are requested to go to the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance.


❤ Colin Gerald Lawrence 02.05.1937 – 23.12.2022  ❤

#Broadwindsor,#Burstock,#Blackdown,#Drimpton,#Hursey,#Kittwhistle,#Seaborough,#WestDorset,#Dorset,#Village,#Community,#SadLoss,#Family,#Love,#Thoughts,#Prayers,#Funeral,#BeaminsterTeamChurches,#Wake,#Celebration,#Farewell,#MissYou,#LoveYou,#BeKind,#BeSafe,#StaySafe

Welcome?

Last weekend the Broadwindsor News parish magazine dropped through some letterboxes and went on sale at Broadwindsor Community Stores, priced 4op. The monthly magazine has a modest, loyal following of parishioners and is sent to other friends in other countries, who can expect to find the month’s coming events, news and updates from local groups and organisations and a full list of Beaminster Team Churches‘ services within and beyond our parish.

The main photograph shows an excerpt from the editorial on page 1.  ‘Welcome‘ was the title… then half way through, the words “mean-spiritedness, backbiting and divisiveness.” are used describing the editor’s interpretation of her months in our village in 2022.  The Editor may well have moved here (Broadwindsor) almost 22 years ago but it is common knowledge that the Editor and her husband regularly spend up to six months of the year abroad.

Although one may empathise with the Editor’s experience of ‘last year was a stinker’, it questions the voice of ‘the people’ and has caused quite a stir!  ‘Shocked’, ‘Saddened’, ‘Surprised’ ‘Flabbergasted!’ It is most certainly not conducive to welcoming anyone to our village, which is quite ironic as the Editor also delivers such positive and warm words on social media on behalf of the White Lion pub. More HERE.

There was further unrest caused by the words from the Broadwindsor News Editor’s husband on page 6…

In the first instance, he implies that a complaint was down to an individual. He may be unaware that the individual who made the enquiry was indeed just a spokesperson for a number of people in the village.
Nonetheless, any individual has every right to question any registered charity.  Said one village resident “A Church publication is not the place to put an opinion denying the rights of a person to complain. Be the complaint justified or not”.

When asked to comment, the Editor responded with “There have been a number of misinformed, unpleasant and libellous comments flying around over the past year or so. It would be a shame to perpetuate this when, hopefully, we are all trying to work for the good of everyone.”  A response has not yet been received when asked to provide more detail to justify such comments.

The former Editor of Bridport & Lyme Regis News stated, surprisingly, that she did not have the Editorial Code, produced by the Independent Press Standards Organisation (which can be found at: https://www.ipso.co.uk/editors-code-of-practice/) You can make your own judgement.

The Editor’s comment “for the good of everyone” is difficult to comprehend in view of the Editors remarks.

Happiness is when what you think, what you say and what you do are in harmony – Mahatma Gandhi

#Broadwindsor,#Burstock,#Blackdown,#Drimpton,#Hursey,#Kittwhistle,#Seaborough,#Village,#Community,#WestDorset,#Dorset,#DAONB,#BroadwindsorNews,#BeaminsterTeamChurches,#EditorialCode,#BeKind,#BeSafe,#StaySafe

Funeral Arrangements For Colin Lawrence

The funeral service for Colin Lawrence, who passed away on 23rd December 2022, will take place at St. John the Baptist Church in Broadwindsor on Wednesday, 25th January at 2pm. His burial will then take place at St. Andrew’s church in Burstock.

Colin’s wake will be at the Comrades Hall, Broadwindsor and all his friends are invited to attend. Our love, thoughts and prayers go out to Val, Mandy, Wayne & granddaughter, Amy ❤


Family flowers only please. Any donations, please send to the Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance HERE or by mail to c/o A J Wakely & Sons, 7 North Street, Beaminster, DT8 3DZ.

 


❤ Colin Lawrence 02.05.1937 – 23.12.2022  ❤

#Broadwindsor,#Burstock,#Blackdown,#Drimpton,#Hursey,#Kittwhistle,#Seaborough,#WestDorset,#Dorset,#Village,#Community,#SadLoss,#Family,#Love,#Thoughts,#Prayers,#Funeral,#BeaminsterTeamChurches,#Wake,#Celebration,#Farewell,#MissYou,#BeKind,#BeSafe,#StaySafe

Carol Service & Christmas Story – Saturday, 17th December

There will be a short outdoor service with carols and the Christmas story led by Rev. Jo this Saturday, starting at 4pm in Bernards’ Place by the Christmas tree and shelter.

Wrap up warm and bring a torch!

There will be refreshments afterwards in The White Lion 🙂

Christmas Garland
#Broadwindsor,#Burstock,#Blackdown,#Drimpton,#Hursey,#Kittwhistle,#Seaborough,#Village,#Community,#WestDorset,#BeaminsterTeamChurches,#TheWhiteLion,#Christmas,#CarolSinging,#BeKind,#BeSafe,#StaySafe

 

Platinum Jubilee 2022 #1 St. John the Baptist Church

Broadwindsor Fun Group would like to thank Annie Collins for all her work and fantastic photography over the long weekend of celebrations in honour of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II on her magnificent achievement of 70 years reign 🙂

Remember to tag your photographs with #Broadwindsor & #BWFunDay or send them into photos@broadwindsor.org

There are sooooo many photographs and recordings that have been taken over the last few days, the Editor is currently compiling them in categories and we begin with #1 St. John the Baptist church. Annie was given special permission to go to the top of the church and take some marvellous aerial photographs of our village.  These particular photographs are copyrighted to Annie and can be downloaded FREE.

Please address enqueries directly to Annie at: annie221159@hotmail.com.

Please also enjoy her photographs of the beautiful Floral Displays which were inside the church. These photographs are also FREE to download or share.

 

#Broadwindsor,#Burstock,#Blackdown,#Drimpton,#Hursey,#Kittwhistle,#Seaborough,#Dorset,#Village,#Community,#BFG,#Family,#Fun,#PlatinumJubilee,#LetsCreateJubileeFund,#Smile,#Photography,#HM70,#Bunting,#AnnieCollins,#Recycle,#BWFunDay,#BFG22,#Celebrate,#BeaminsterTeamChurches,#ThankYou,#BeKind,#BeSafe,#StaySafe

Broadwindsor Church – Jubilee Celebrations

As part of the Platinum Jubilee celebrations, Broadwindsor church are inviting you to a Cream Tea on Friday, 3rd June from 2-5pm. Entry is £2.50.


From Thursdsy 2nd and over the weekend, the church will also be open for you to view a memorablia display and admire the ladies’ floral arragements.

Entry is free but donations are always welcome 🙂

For more on Broadwindsor’s Jubilee celebrations – Click HERE.

 

#Broadwindsor,#Drimpton,#Burstock,#Blackdown,#Hursey,#Kittwhistle,#Seaborough,#Village,#WestDorset,#Dorset,#Community,#Village,#BeaminsterTeamChurches,#PlatinumJubilee,#HM70,#CreamTea,#Memorabilia,#Peace,#BeKind,#BeSafe,#StaySafe

Bob Wills’ Family Say Thank You

“Bob Wills’ family would like to express their deep gratitude to everyone who was able to attend his memorial on Friday 6th of May. To see so many of his local friends, and hear how loved he was, was a great comfort to us all. The day felt to be a genuine celebration of a life well-lived. ”

“We would like to give special thanks to Bridget and Katie for their beautiful violin and cello pieces at the funeral service, and to Brian for his wonderful organ music. Thank you to Liz and Megan for their beautiful floral decoration of the church, and to Lynne, Val and John for their splendid transformation of the village hall. Thank you to John also for his moving and fitting tribute – and for his shirt! ”

“Bob will be greatly missed by us all, but his spirit will live on in Broadwindsor. Thank you.”

Kind regards,
Rob Wills

#Broadwindsor,#Burstock,#Blackdown,#Drimpton,#Hursey,#Kittwhistle,#Seaborough,#Dorset,#Village,#Community,#Loss,#Memorial,#ThankYou,#Friend,#Family,#WeldmarHospice,#CelebrateLife,#BeaminsterTeamChurches,#Remember,#StableyardRestaurant,#Farewell,#BeKind,#BeSafe,#StaySafe