- St Mark's Church
- Guildford Road
- Normandy, Guildford
- Surrey
- GU3 2DA
01483 811777
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9th May 2018,
SCORCHING MAY MERRIMENT AT ST. MARK’S CHURCH, WYKE
MAY DAY FAIR
Record breaking soaring temperatures ensured that the annual St. Mark’s Church, Wyke May Fair was a great success. The Fair took place at Manor Fruit Farm, Normandy, on Monday 7th May, with many of the local community and beyond taking part to raise over £2000 of vital funds for St. Mark’s Church.
Some new attractions added to the Fair, combined with popular favourites meant there was something for everyone to enjoy. Local company ‘My Little Unicorn’ brought the lovely Snowdrop and Twilight Sparkle along to provide Unicorn rides, which were very popular. The Dog Show was also a great success, with many dogs walking proudly around with their winning rosettes.
Other local companies and organisations that came along included Normandy Garage where people had to guess how many balloons were in a Mitsubishi, Hunts Hill Farm served a delicious BBQ and Normandy Therapy Garden provided some lovely seasonal produce.
There were some stunning classic cars, games for children of all ages, face painting, massages, a coconut shy, ‘smash a plate’, ‘splat a rat’ and lots more. There was an impressive variety of quality raffles prizes, many donated by local businesses. With temperatures soaring, the refreshments area was busy with plenty of drinks and homemade cakes on offer.
Children from Wyke Primary School had taken part in a plate decorating competition with this month’s Royal wedding as the theme. The very creative and thoughtful array of plates were put on display for all to enjoy and were judged by local Normandy artist Robyn Horsburgh.
Revd. Alison Craven commented: ““It was a wonderful afternoon and our thanks go particularly to the dedicated planning team who put in months of work and also to the great team of volunteers on the day and to our friendly local businesses. We were blessed with the weather and it was a great joy to see people of all ages enjoying themselves and I’m very grateful to everyone who came along. As a church we really appreciate the generosity of our village community and are so appreciative for not only the money raised but also the time, resources and thought behind the scenes so freely given. "
The May Fair is St. Mark’s biggest annual fund-raising event of the year. It is now significantly more important, following the Church’s fund-raising appeal in October 2013. Regular ‘just giving’ donations had fallen, while costs continue to rise. The campaign raised awareness and the outcome was successful, but St Mark’s is well aware that they need to keep up with inflation, so it is important that this level of fund-raising is maintained.
For more information regarding St Marks Church, Wyke, please contact the office on 01483 811777, email: office@stmarkswyke.org.uk or visit the website: www.stmarkswyke.org.uk
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15 11 2017
NEW ARTS SOCIETY CHURCH TRAIL FOR CHILDREN
LAUNCHED AT ST. MARK’S CHURCH, WYKE
Last weekend saw the launch of a new Children’s Trail at St. Mark’s Church, Wyke in Normandy. The trail has been produced by a team from the Guildford Wey Valley Decorative & Fine Arts Society (Guildford Wey Valley DFAS), www.gwvdfas.org.uk, a member of The Arts Society, especially for St. Mark’s. Children from the St. Mark’s teatime service enjoyed the experience of answering the trail questions by exploring their Church.
The team of Geoff and Jackie Ellerton, Diana Marchant, Anne Seymour and Jean Hodges put together a trail that encourages children aged 8-12 years to study the church and its artwork such as stained glass, artefacts, memorials, and furnishings. The aims of the trail are to inspire children to explore the stories behind the images of people and animals represented in the church and understand more of the church's place in local and national social history. The Arts Society (www.theartssociety.org) undertakes the creation of trails for Churches and other places of worship or of historic interest both locally and countrywide as one of their volunteering opportunities.
Reverend Alison Craven commented: “We were thrilled that the Guildford Wey Valley DFAS wanted to produce a trail for our Church. For visitors to our Church, as well as regular visits from our local Primary School and Beavers/Cubs groups, these trails will be a great opportunity for the children to learn more about us and our local history in a fun way. We look forward to organising some visits from these organisations and anyone else who would like to take part.
Our teatime group of children really seemed to enjoy the opportunity of taking the time to learn about their church in a way that hadn’t done before.”
Geoff Ellerton, Chairman of the Guildford Wey Valley DFAS commented: “These trails are a very enjoyable way for children and adults to learn together about their local church. Answering simple questions and making drawings of what they see, is a great way to discover an important part of their local community. We have been delighted to be able to help.”
For more information on the Children’s Trail at St. Mark’s Church, Wyke, please contact the Parish Office on 01483 811777 or email office.stmarkswyke@talktalk.net
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Editor’s Notes:
The Guildford Wey Valley DFAS is in its 29th year and helps bring together people with an interest in all aspects of the arts with an annual programme of illustrated lectures, special interest days and visits. The society tries to initiate and support projects for children and also local places of historic and cultural interest.
9th May 2017,
MAY MERRIMENT AT ST MARKS CHURCH, WYKE
MAY DAY FAIR
Sunshine and showers didn’t dampen spirits at the annual St. Mark’s Church, Wyke May Fair. The Fair took place at Manor Fruit Farm, Normandy, on Monday 1st May, with many of the local community taking part, ensuring plenty of fun was had, while raising vital funds for St. Mark’s Church.
There were a number of activities for all ages to enjoy, from watching maypole dancing, entering or watching the popular dog show, a photography competition, children’s rides, traditional games and a variety of stalls and plenty of refreshments! Wyke Primary School also took part in a plate decorating competition with the theme of Spring, and the very creative array of plates were put on display for all to enjoy.
Revd Alison Craven commented: “Despite the varied weather conditions, I was so pleased that the whole community came together and were either helping to run the Fair or taking part. Everyone really seemed to be enjoying themselves and I’m very grateful to everyone who came. It involves a great deal of organising and I would like to thank Clare Sherwood in particular for coordinating the whole event and her team to.”
The May Fair is St Mark’s biggest annual fund raising event of the year and is significantly important following the Church’s launch of their fund-raising appeal back in October 2013. Regular giving donations had fallen, while costs continue to rise. The campaign raised awareness and the outcome was successful, but St Mark’s is well aware that they need to keep up with inflation, so it is important that this level of giving is maintained.
For more information regarding St Marks Church, Wyke, please contact the office on 01483 811777 or email office.stmarkswyke@talktalk.net
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4th August 2016
ST MARK’S CHURCH, WYKE CELEBRATES THE WORK OF THE REVEREND MONICA TAYLOR AS SHE PREPARES TO LEAVE AFTER THIRTY YEARS OF DEDICATED SERVICE TO THE CHURCH.
Over a hundred parishioners filled St Mark’s Wyke church hall recently to attend a celebration concert to thank the Revd. Monica Taylor and her husband David, for their dedication to the Church for the last 30 years. Monica and David are preparing to move away to be closer to their family in Kent.
The concert programme was filled with music and poetry performed by members of the congregation and family and friends. During the evening a delicious two course meal was served along with wine and soft drinks. The evening concluded with a speech from the Vicar of St Mark’s, the Reverend Alison Craven and Monica and David were presented with a beautiful basket of flowers.
Monica moved to Normandy in 1982 and started attending services at St Mark’s. Slowly she became more involved with the church and after a three-year part time course, Monica was a licensed Reader in 1995. This allowed Monica to increase her role and take funerals, lead and preach at Church services and other ministry roles.
In 2005 Monica was encouraged to take the extra two years’ study which led to her ordination in 2007. Monica felt honoured to be able to preside at Holy Communion and consecrate the bread and wine, and also to be able to channel God’s blessing to the congregations and to those whom she visited in pastoral situations. On reaching retirement age, Monica has continued to work within the Church as an Assistant Priest.
2013 was a particularly special year for Monica, as she was appointed by Diana Lockyer Nibbs to be her Chaplain during her time as the Mayor of Guildford. As well as attending the formal occasions, Monica was able to accompany the Mayor on her many visits, and was particularly pleased to visit and learn about the large number and variety of charities providing support for so many people in this area.
Monica will be taking her last service at St Mark’s Church, Wyke on Sunday 14th August at 10am and it will be a particularly moving occasion for all attending. Monica commented: “After living and working in Normandy for over thirty years, I will be so sad to leave. The terrific friendships, support and love that I have experienced will stay with me forever and I very much hope to stay in touch with everyone at St Mark’s.
The celebration concert was a very enjoyable experience and I was touched by all who came along and the amazing effort put into the evening. I would like to thank everyone who made it so special for me. “
Monica and her husband David will be moving to Kent in August. Although well into retirement, Monica has already been looking into whether she will be able to help out in her new local Church.
Reverend Alison Craven commented: “We are so sad that Monica is leaving us, she will leave a unique and large hole in the ministry here. Her dedication and tireless work in the Parish over the last thirty years, serving in a totally voluntary capacity has been outstanding and I want to thank her for everything that she has done. David also has been a great support behind the scenes, and we will all miss them both very much.”
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27th June 2016.
PETS PAST AND PRESENT CELEBRATED
AT ST MARK’S CHURCH, WYKE, NORMANDY
Worshippers and some of their pets attended a very special service last Sunday (26TH June) at St Mark’s Church, Wyke in Normandy. The service was aimed at giving thanks to God for the wonderful creation of animals.
One hen and some dogs calmly took part in the service which included a blessing of the animals and their owners, songs and prayers and a talk from Jacqueline Albury about the work of the Cat’s Protection League.
Focusing on pets from past and present, some people brought along pictures of pets that unfortunately are no longer with us and special prayers thinking of them were said.
Local resident Alastair Lawson, owner of Bluebell the hen, also ensured that his pig, Dottie received a special blessing from Reverend Alison Craven, Vicar at St Mark’s. Alastair commented: “I really think the idea of a service to thank God for all our animals and pets is quite innovative and unusual even in a rural community like ours. Pets are precious, so the chance to spend some time reflecting on how important they are, is a rare and valued opportunity.”
Reverend Alison Craven commented: “We would like to thank all involved in preparing for this special service. We felt particularly blessed, as we had lovely weather for our outside service, after days of very unsettled weather.
It was lovely to have some very well behaved pets in attendance, and also wonderful that people brought along photographs of their pets that either they couldn’t bring to our service or who had sadly passed away. Everyone really enjoyed the experience to reflect and give thanks for the pets, that bring so much comfort and love to their owners. It was also very interesting to hear about the excellent work of the charity Cats Protection League.”
The service was followed by refreshments for all, tea and cake for the people and the dogs enjoyed their very own biscuits.
For more information on services and all that St Marks Church, Wyke has to offer, please contact the office on 01483 811777 or email office.stmarkswyke@talktalk.net
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13th June 2016
COMMUNITY COMES OUT TO CELEBRATE HER MAJESTY'S 90TH BIRTHDAY AT ST MARK'S TEA PARTY
A joyous Tea Party for Her Majesty's 90th birthday was held at Manor Fruit Farm, Normandy last Saturday. St Mark's Church, Wyke was thrilled that over 80 people came along to enjoy a very English cup of tea and piece of cake.
All generations enjoyed the afternoon, with a special craft activity for children, which involved them creating their own individual piece of bunting that when added together made a stunning display. Others took advantage of the opportunity to sit down, enjoy some of the delicious refreshments and chat with friends.
Our very own nonagenarian, Lorna Hurdle aged 90 has been a member of St Mark's for over ten years and really enjoyed the event. Lorna commented: “l really admires Her Majesty, I think she does a great job. The event today has been lovely. I feel really grateful to be the age I am and in good health and I would imagine that Her Majesty must feel the same. I hope she has enjoyed all of her celebrations, I celebrated mine with a 'Dress to Impress' party theme and enjoyed being Marilyn Monroe for the evening!!”
St Mark's Event Organiser Clare Sherwood commented: “As Her Majesty is the 'Supreme Governor of the Church of England', we felt it was fitting to hold a tea party in her honour and wanted to invite our whole community along. There was such a lovely atmosphere and people were so generous, we had a real plentiful supply of homemade cakes. We all enjoyed singing the National Anthem and later on Happy Birthday. I'd like to thank everyone who came along to support the Tea Party and also to our helpers who washed up and made lots of cups of teas, we couldn't have done it without you.”
At Church the following morning parishioner June Kimberling presented St Mark’s with an exquisite tapestry kneeler that she made in honour of the Queen’s 90th birthday. The special service was followed by a toast for Her Majesty.
For more information regarding St Marks Church, Wyke, please contact the office on 01483 811777 or email office.stmarkswyke@talktalk.net
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15th April 2016.
WANBOROUGH RESIDENT SIMON GIMSON TO RUN THE LONDON MARATHON FOR ST MARK’S CHURCH, WYKE AND ST MICHAEL’S CHURCH, CAMBERLEY
Former Army Officer Simon Gimson is gearing up to the challenge of running this year’s London Marathon on Sunday 24th April to raise money for St Mark’s Church, Wyke and St Michael’s Church in Camberley.
Simon is particularly looking forward to this opportunity to run the Marathon as he was planning to complete it last year, but had to pull out due to a painful condition called Plantar fasciitis that results in pain in the heel and bottom of the foot. Simon aged 55, is training hard to ensure that he is ready to complete this experience, as it is something on his bucket list of challenges to achieve. Having recently completed the Surrey Half Marathon, Simon is feeling quietly confident of successfully fulfilling this challenge.
Before moving to Wanborough, Simon was involved with St Michael’s Church in Camberley and was Chair of their Renewal Committee for a number of years. Now a Parishioner at St Mark’s Church, Wyke in Normandy, Simon is very keen to help raise money for both churches.
Simon commented: “I feel very lucky to have got through the ballot to enter the Marathon again this year and really wanted to use this opportunity to help others benefit. The Church has been a very important part of my life and I really wanted to give something back.”
Reverend Alison Craven of St Mark’s Church, Normandy commented: “We are very grateful for Simon’s tremendous efforts to help us raise money for our Church. Our Parishioners are being very supportive to Simon and are generously supporting him.”
Reverend Bruce Nicole of St Michael’s Church, Camberley commented: “As a past Parishioner we are extremely thankful for Simon’s continued support of our Church. We are currently raising money to reorder the interior of our Church to make it safer and more comfortable for people of all ages and physical conditions to Worship God. So we are very thankfully to Simon for helping us with this project.”
If you are keen to sponsor Simon on his challenging 26.2-mile run, you can sponsor him by emailing the St Mark’s Church parish office on office.stmarkswyke@talktalk.net or visit Simon’s Just Giving page https://www.justgiving.com/Simon-Gimson4 to donate money to St Michael’s Church.
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8th February 2015
COMMUNITY ACHIEVES FUND RAISING TARGET FOR A DISABILITY ACCESS INTO ST MARK’S CHURCH, WYKE
A packed Church Hall at St Marks, Wyke, Normandy this Saturday, helped ensure that their ‘Auction of Promises’ was a huge success raising approximately £6,000 on the evening, with an additional £2,000 in donations. The aim of the evening was to raise funds to construct an improved disability access into the church.
The evening was extremely entertaining thanks to the talented Auctioneer Tom Lofts, who not only made the auction engaging and witty, but also helped ensure that each Promise reached its maximum value, often beyond its true worth.
One of the top selling Promises was a week in a six bedroom house in the Pyrenees Atlantiques which offers views of the Tour de France as it goes past. It was so popular, that the owners kindly offered a repeat Promise with the holiday house eventually selling three times, raising £1,500.00 in total. A box at the Royal Albert Hall to see ‘Classical Spectacular’ a mix of classical music and multi coloured laser displays sold for £325.00. Other Promises such as a meal for two at The White Hart, Wood Street sold for £140.00. One of the high spots of the auction was when the Auctioneer encouraged the Reverend Alison Craven to get the bids going for her offer of ‘Holy Ironing’, which was purchased for £140.00.
The community really pulled together to make the evening a success from organising the event, producing marketing material, creating flower and bunting displays to decorate the halls, a live band played gentle background music and delicious food was provided by Monique Birley.
The Reverend Alison Craven commented: “We are enormously thrilled by the generosity of our local community. There is a huge amount of people we need to thank, who all played a vital role in helping us raise the money to improve the access to the Church for people with physical disabilities. The new path is important in helping us to ensure that access to our beautiful Church is available to all. It may well mean that someone who is less able, will soon to be able to attend the Church.
We need to thank all contributed the Promises and those who generously bought them. We had well over 50 Promises in total. In addition, Surrey County Council has agreed to contribute £2,000 to our fund, following support from Normandy’s County Councillor, Keith Witham, which we are so grateful for, and, lastly, to the brilliant Tom Lofts, who helped make the evening such a success. Without all of this support, we wouldn’t have been able to achieve this new addition for our Church.”
For further information on St Mark’s Church, Wyke please contact 01483 811777.
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