Shipton Gorge Parish Council

Wednesday 24 March. Annual Parochial Church Meeting - 7.30 p.m. in the Village Hall for election of church officials.
Maundy Thursday 1 April. Morning Prayer - 11.00 a.m.
Good Friday 2 April. Morning Prayer and Litany - 11.00 a.m.
Easter Sunday 4 April. Easter Communion Service - 9.30 a.m. Flowers will be arranged in the church during Saturday.
Saturday 12 June. Open Garden and Cream Tea - from 2.30 p.m. at the home of Mr & Mrs Robert Langran, Church View, Brook Street.
Saturday 26 June. St Martin's Church Fete - 2.00 p.m. to 4.00 p.m. in the Village Hall and surrounds. There will be a Feast of Flowers contributed by villagers in the Church and the tower will be open.
Sunday 3 October. Harvest Festival Service - 11.00 a.m.
Monday 4 October. Harvest Supper - 7.30 p.m. in the Village Hall.
Remembrance Sunday 14 November. Service of Quiet Contemplation and Reflection - 9.30 a.m.
Sunday 19 December. Carol Service - 6.30 p.m. followed by  refreshments in the Village Hall.
Christmas Day 25 December. Services to be advised.

Tower Captain: Christine Green
Correspondent: Colin Green

Practice Night Monday 7.00 p.m. (Check 01308 898334)

Sunday Service Ringing

• 1st 10.30am
• 2nd 9am
• 3rd 9am
• 4th 6pm

ALL RINGERS AND LEARNERS WELCOME.

The 14th Century church of St. Martin's stands on a small plateau on the south side of Brook Street from where it is visible from almost everywhere in the village. It retains its original 14th century tower with an elaborate doorway, but the remainder of the church was rebuilt in 1862 in what was described as a rather cold style. The architect at this time was John Hicks of Dorchester, for whom Thomas Hardy was then working. The contractor, from a village of masons, was one of the Swaffield family. The church has a 13th century font, which is unusual in that it has seven sides.