Wild Church Blyford
It was cold and wet at the end of January, but wintry weather did not stop Frank Allen and his team from carrying out much needed tree surgery in Blyford Churchyard. The trees had not been cut in more than a decade, and their size was causing problems.
On the south side of the church, the shadow cast by trees hugely overgrown with ivy was worsening the damp inside the church, which was unable to fully dry out even in the summer. Across the churchyard many graves were overwhelmed by long-hanging branches and it is now possible to see one of the most exceptional graves on the right-hand side, near the main gate. This is the grave of Samuel Croft, who died at the age of 21 in 1849; his headstone shows in fine detail a team of two draught horses, a ploughman and his plough. (Photo credit: Simon Knott.)
Elsewhere in the churchyard, Frank and his team pruned overgrown trees and removed many loads of dead wood. The cedar (pictured) near the southern boundary was collapsing under the weight of dead branches and now looks magnificent. Frank and his team did a great job, and we strongly recommend a visit to the churchyard to see his work. We are grateful to Blyford Estate for granting access to the rear of the churchyard across estate land. Many thanks also to Rodney Camp who keeps the churchyard tidy by mowing the grass and the paths.
Blyford Churchyard is a beautiful and peaceful place but at the moment there is nowhere to sit! We are currently seeking grants and donations to install two benches supplied made by a local craftsman. If you can help this fundraising effort, please get in touch.
Events
Jumble Sale: We shall be holding a fundraising sale of clothes in the church on Saturday 15 March, 11am to 3pm. We shall be in the church on the morning of Saturday 8 March from 10am to 11am to receive donations. Outside that window, you can leave clothes in the porch (bagged up, please).
Work Party: Our first volunteer work party of 2025 will be on Saturday morning 19 April at 10am-1pm, with a mid-morning break for coffee at the Queen’s Head. Even if you are unable to lend a hand, call in to say hello if you are passing.
Concert: On Thursday 24 April at 7pm, Blyford Church will be the venue for a Spring Concert with Heartbeat choir and local musicians Karen Thomas and Jane Parker.
Services
Morning services are held at 10am on the third Sunday of the month. All Saints Blyford is a wild church: we are a congregation that celebrates God in nature. This means part or all of the service may be held in the churchyard. Wrap up warm!
Get in touch
If you would like to know more about All Saints Blyford, please come to an event, join a service, or contact any members of the PCC: Virginia Storey, Charlie Hawkins, John Handley, Martin Clark, Christina Ballinger, or our Team Rector Rev Dominic Doble.