Apart from the religious aspects of church buildings, there are numerous other interesting features such as art, architecture, history, family trees and even nature (yes, we have bats!). To celebrate all these features, St. Michael’s Church in Shute held an Open Weekend when this magnificent old building was be open to the public from 10.30am to 5pm on Saturday 8th and Sunday 9th of September.
Christopher Pole-Carew has done a huge amount of research and has produced very interesting information sheets on the superb statues, plaques, stained glass windows, architectural features, pictures, sundials, roof bosses and lots more.
“The intention was to show to all who came, but mostly to our fellow parishioners, just what we had of interest in our church. This wasn’t a religious occasion, but no less a happy one for that. All the plaques, monuments – you name it – had write-ups, so that decorated lumps of marble seemed to come to life: poor Sophia Anne, who died aged 20 having her third child: her first two children had died and she had married at 16. Jane Maria, died in Cuba, aged 22, and was shipped home to buried here in Shute; a shipwreck; a gallant soldier: Harry Glasper MC, killed on the very last day of the War. Our Parish history; so much to read and ponder over.
This was fun, and well worth repeating, so next year: come again – or for the first time!”
Helpers were on hand to attempt to answer any questions and refreshments were served free of charge all day. This wass a excellent opportunity for everyone, especially the locals, to come along and enjoy the many qualities of this famous ancient building.
Over 75 people came along to visit this building ( 37 locals and 39 from further afield). Donations on the day came to £400 which will go to church funds. Many thanks to all the helpers – too numerous to mention individually – but especially to Christopher and Gill Pole-Carew for their magnificent efforts.
Further details about the church can be found on this website under Shute Church.
(photos courtesy of David Vickers and Rick Wood)
