The formulation of a village Parish Plan in 2009 was an ideal opportunity to seek input on the views of the village about, amongst other things, the church. Views were sought about the nature and frequency of attendance, the actual building and its perceived place in the community and the work of the church community in the village. As a result of this feedback we are seeking to address the following issues:

·         How the building can best be equipped and used to support village activity

·         What we do and how we do it

·         The role of the church in the community

·         Access issues

The PCC was delighted to learn from the Parish plan that 83% of respondents said they valued the building itself; its architectural and historical importance was specifically mentioned by over 56 villagers, while another large minority drew attention to its role as ‘the centre of the village’.

Over 75% of villagers said they support St Leonard’s in a number of ways including regular financial giving, supporting fund raising activities and in practical ways such as grass cutting, flower arranging and cleaning.

There were critical comments, mostly around how the church community is perceived in the village and work is progressing on how these issues may best be resolved to everyone’s satisfaction.

With thanks to Birdingbury Parish Council for the use of information detailed in the Parish Plan

Also used in reference:

The continuing story of St Leonards Church Birdingbury, 2^nd Edition 1994, Reverend John Stevinson

Birdingbury: A village of the Upper Leam Valley, Canon Idwal Jones