2025 Annual General Meeting Report

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The Annual General Meeting of the Friends of St Mary’s Beaminster was held on Thursday 20th February 2025 at 2:30pm.

Acting Chairman of the Friends Peter Brook opened the proceedings by warmly welcoming all those who were attending. This was followed by Reverend Canon David Baldwin who thanked the committee for their hard work and generous contributions towards the refurbishment to the Church over the past year.

Peter then explained in more detail that there had been two very successful events; a Jazz Concert in April which proved very popular, and a Flower Festival which was held in the Church during harvest. The latter brought many local traders and organisations together to create a colourful and meaningful occasion.

Two major projects were supported in 2024; with £50,000 being allocated towards the refurbishment of the kitchen and new toilet, and a further £10,000 for the installation of a CCTV system. Peter particularly mentioned Judith Hansen and gave his heartfelt thanks to her for all the hard work and dedication she’s given over the past year in managing these projects.

The election of the committee took place and the result was as follows:

  • Chairman: Peter Brook
  • Secretary: Amanda Fairchild
  • Treasurer: Brian Ridley
  • Events Manager: Jane Evans
  • Members: Sally Mallinson, Evelyn Snell, Sue Corner, Susannah Hills, Tim Hills.

The committee was re-elected as a whole apart from Dan Rootham, who has temporarily stepped down, and James Oldfield who has agreed to join the committee.

After the business side to the meeting was finalised we were treated to a personal and very informative presentation by Tim and Susannah Hills on their Uganda-based charity Fingerprints. A delicious tea with sandwiches and homemade cakes concluded a very interesting afternoon.

Peter took the opportunity to remind us of all of a special date to put in our diaries. This year the Friends of St Mary’s celebrate its 25th anniversary and to mark this important occasion the Friends will hold a church service in St Mary’s Church on 19 June at 2:30pm followed by tea in Peter and Maggie Brook’s garden.