The Friends Of St Mary's - A Registered Charity

The cost of preserving, maintaining and improving Wendover's oldest and most historic building depends entirely on members of the church and the wider local community. Contrary to popular belief, the Church Commissioners do not make any contribution to the upkeep of churches; nor is routine maintenance eligible for grant aid. The Friends of St Mary's was formed in 1994 to safeguard this valuable part of Wendover's heritage. Whilst the members of St Mary's successfully finance the church's ministry, the church needs the support of local residents and businesses and all those with Wendover connections who cherish this building to assist in taking responsibility for its upkeep.

The Next Five Years

Following the detailed inspection of the church in 2005, which we are required to carry out every five years, our architects identified an urgent need to repair the stonework around the windows and tower at an estimated cost of £45,000. Within a few years we will also need to replace the nave roof at a cost in excess of £60,000.

How You Can Help

By becoming a Friend of St Mary's you can help in many ways. Firstly by becoming an active member. Perhaps you would wish to join the committee and contribute your ideas and energy to our ongoing fund-raising campaigns. Or you might like to join an occasional working party to carry out some of the smaller or easier tasks that do not require professional contractors - such as painting or repairing fabric.

If you do not wish to be actively involved, you can still be a valued member of the Friends by making an annual contribution to the sum we need to raise each year to maintain the building. Annual subscriptions are normally in the form of a bankers order, on the clear understanding that you are free to amend or cancel this at any time. If you pay income tax, the Friends would be grateful if you would consider a regular annual subscription by Gift Aid. This would allow the Friends to secure an additional sum each year, at no extra cost.

Please Support And Join Us Now

The Friends of St Mary's is not confined to churchgoers. Many of our members belong to other denominations while others do not go to church at all. What unites the Friends is an affection for our parish church, a concern that it should remain an important part of village life and a determination that future generations will continue to derive pleasure and solace from its continuing presence.

The Friends are delighted to welcome individual, family and corporate members. Click here to download the enrolment form, including bankers order and Gift Aid declaration, in Word 6 format. Please return completed forms to the address indicated on the form.