We were delighted that Anthony Mangnall, former MP for South Devon, was able to come to St Peter's Church for our latest Soiree in June. He gave an informative and amusing talk about the strange ways of the Houses of Parliament and how much there was to learn as a new parliamentarian, and he stuck to his brief not to be party political.
Although arranged before the General Election was called, the event took place during the campaign, so we are
particularly grateful that Anthony found the time in his hectic schedule. About 50 people attended, from the Village and further afield, and around £300 was raised for FoSP
funds.
We have provided some water in the churchyard, for birds, hedgehogs, insects and other wildlife (not to mention passing dogs), with a birdbath by the corner of the church near the tap.
If you happen to be passing and notice that the birdbath is nearly empty, please can you give it a can of water, especially in dry weather.
Friends of St Peter's sponsored a tree in the Stoke Fleming Christmas Tree Festival this year. The theme was "All Things Bright and Beautiful" in support of the Living Churchyard project. Our tree was in pride of place - the first one that people saw - and over the 3 days of the Festival a total of 737 visitors attended.
Children from the Stoke Fleming Primary School made some "bug hotels" for the churchyard in their Forest School classes this term.
We will watch with interest to see what sort of creepy-crawlies take up residence there.
A series of wildlife surveys took place during the summer, including:
See the results on the Observations page
Friends of St Peter's talk entitled Managing God’s Acre: Why are Churchyards so Important for Wildlife, took place in St Peter's Church. This talk was given by David Curry - Exeter Diocese Environmental Advisor. Video of the talk at the link below.
The shrubs by the path have been trimmed and a small team has cleared up the debris to be taken to Loam Rangers. The wildflower meadow has been strimmed and raked. Major work started - cutting back the brambles along the east wall to the left of the gate. We have discovered some hidden gravestones and gained about 3 more feet of churchyard.
Meanwhile our new daffodils are looking at their best.
The first phase of work in the churchyard has started. A mixture of 1800 narcissus bulbs are being planted along the edges of the main path.