Many thanks to Evelyn for this report on behalf of the Friends of St Catherine’s Church. Ed
At the recent AGM of the Friends of St Catherine’s church (FOSCAT), the energy and enthusiasm of the committee was self-evident.
Continuous fundraising
Throughout the entire year 2012, not a month was missed that a fundraising event took place. Music, Bridge, Stalls, Quizzes, Choirs and Handbag sales, each one making a financial contribution to the upkeep of St Catherine’s Church and generously attended by the good people of the Island.
Since the group’s inception in 2009 they have raised a total of £34,566, a major contribution to the planned three phases of refurbishments and improvements. Not least was the bold idea to install Solar Panels on the roof of the church and the completion of the fixing of the Tower.
‘The Community Garden’
They are now moving on to Phase Three, ‘The Community Garden’.
This ambitious plan involves clearing and paving the area beyond the West door to provide an open space that can be used for the community. There will be a gate that provides access for all to the council car park, a less risky journey than presently balancing along the narrow pavement.
An architect has been appointed and the work is planned for completion in 18 months to 2 years, subject to the necessary legal process being completed and approval by the church authorities.
Autumn fundraising
Meanwhile, the committee of Friends of St Catherine’s begins its plans for autumn fundraising, as keen as ever.
More information can be found on their website.
Image: © Used with permission of Chalkie
