Villagers came together to celebrate the 900th anniversary of Steep Church in a special event supported by a grant from the local EHDC councillor.
The event, titled Hands Around the Church, brought together over 200 residents who formed a symbolic ring around the historic building. The celebration honoured the church’s enduring role at the heart of village life.
It was paid for in part by a Councillor Community Grant from Cllr Nick Drew, District Councillor for Froxfield, Sheet and Steep.
He said: “It’s a privilege to support events like the Steep Church 900th anniversary, which bring our community together in celebration of our shared heritage. The ‘Hands Around the Church’ event was a wonderful example of how local history, community spirit and volunteer effort can come together to create something truly memorable. I’m delighted that my EHDC councillor grant could help make it happen.”
Trevor Hines, principal organiser, said: “More than two hundred members of our Steep community joined hands around our very special church – the jewel in the crown of Steep – to pay homage to the church’s 900 years of service to the neighbourhood.
“It was a display of friendship as community members – some of whom had not met each other before – joined hands around the church. There was a palpable sense of camaraderie and fun in the church yard as groups rotated to have their photos taken at the front of church with our vicar, Rev Dr Susie Collingridge.”