The final act of our project was the addition of a ceiling arch mural

The final addition of a ceiling arch mural early in January (pop in to have a look because it is stunning!) marked the end of the work by Tom Blockley who has done all our graphic design and much more – he and Jim Grevatte, who coordinated all the input that created the Heritage Gateway, have been a delight to work with and added so much to St John’s while retaining its heart and soul.

We had a wonderful afternoon in December welcoming visitors from near and far, listening to the newly restored organ (thank you Helena and Mark), showing people the newly restored clock movement and the lovely felted panel (thank you Iris), enjoying carols (thank you Arabel, and Cleobury Mortimer Concert Brass), and tucking into refreshments. Thank you to everyone who came and contributed in any way. And thanks to all who donated to the clock fund; with National Lottery Heritage Fund's help we have had this restored much sooner than we expected!

There is something for everyone now, from touchable exhibits, local history, touchscreen tablet with access to articles and videos, to proper coffee, hot chocolate, other drinks and snacks, and the very useful toilet. And in our little shop there’s a creative activity book that anyone of any skill or age can enjoy, themed walks to follow on the hill, notebooks and more, and you can even buy a part of St John’s – artisan door hooks made from old pews.

So the project is complete and we have this great new facility – what next? Well our activities won’t stop – see below - but there is a little bit of facilities maintenance to do – thank you to the volunteers who help with that; if you could spare half an hour to help us every so often do get in touch; the tasks are not physical or difficult – it’s just the usual thing that the more people offer to help, the less any one person has to do.

Our first event of the year is the ever-popular Pancakes! On Saturday 21st February at 2.30pm – join us in Doddington Village Hall for lots of lovely pancakes with all sorts of toppings. Then on 21st March (same time, same place) we’re having a film afternoon – a selection of films taken and created during the project, served up with soup and cakes. Look out for old faces and hear local voices – more on this next month.

Knit and Natter continues on the 3rd Monday of each month at 2.30 in St John’s – with heated cushions to keep you warm while you craft and chat.

If you’d like to use the space or bring a group to visit the new Heritage Gateway, or get involved in any other way, do get in touch: stjohnsdoddington@gmail.com. Follow us on Facebook & Instagram for our latest news @stjohnsdoddington