PARISHIONERS of St Leonard’s Church in Beoley revived their traditional snowdrop festival at the weekend, pulling in visitors from across Redditch and beyond.
Last year had been completely cancelled because of Covid restrictions, but this year with such a wonderful display of these early spring flowers, meant that once again visitors were offered the chance to not only wander throughout the grounds but also come inside this historic church to experience both the history of this ancient building but also see displays of the work the church does within the community of Church Hill.
This year there were special displays from an archaeology dig in the village and discoveries from the nearby Moons Moat.
There was also the chance to see the results of the huge community project called ‘Love Christmas’, which was part of a national programme that aimed to bring a little cheer into the lives of disadvantaged people within the community.
So just before Christmas the church set about working with local schools, the YMCA, and Church Hill Big Local to raise funds, create ideas and bring some much needed spirit and good cheer into some peoples lives.
Altogether more than 100 people were given a special parcel with food, gifts and a card to help them celebrate Christmas.
This included the elderly, individuals living alone, young people separated from their families and others who had been badly affected by Covid.
To achieve this funds were raised within the church and school community helped by grant support from Church Hill Big Local.
The project was an astounding success and so well supported that it is almost certainly something that will become a regular Christmas activity.
The weekend weather was kind on Saturday, meaning visitors could enjoy the snowdrops as well as the indoor displays.
Cakes, biscuits, hot soup and plenty of hot beverages ensured no one went hungry either to round off a grand weekend.
