The 'Friends of Detling Church' was founded in 1990 when the church suddenly needed money to repair the roof.
Since then, the 'Friends' have organised interesting events that enhance village life and raise money to maintain and improve the ancient medieval church of St. Martin's.
The 'Friends' hold about six events a year, on average. A wide range of musical events are popular and draw people in from outside the parish, thus widening the catchment area. Other events have been a Dog Show, Garden Safaris, a Safari supper, outdoor Shakespeare, a Quiz Evening, a Caribbean Evening, a Pasta Evening and several 'Words and Music' productions in the church, to name but a few.
For some, the St. Martin's Church building affirms the spiritual lives of Detling inhabitants over the last 600 years, at least. For others, the building may only be a landmark or it may be considered an historical inheritance that has been cared for by many throughout the years. It is certainly the oldest and best known building in the village, and as such, most people would wish to preserve it. There are no church funds available for it's upkeep, apart from the occasional grant for special projects. It is up to church members and the 'Friends', to raise the necessary funds to maintain and improve the building for ourselves and to preserve it for future generations.
The friends currently have nine committee members including;
Blair Gulland - Chairman,
Tikki Gulland - Secretary,
Margret Cooke - Minutes Secretary
John Eckton john@eckanroe.freeserve.co.uk - Treasurer and Membership Secretary.
Membership is currently £5 - Individual
£8 - Family membership.
If you wish to join the 'Friends' please contact John Eckton at or write to 26, Harrow Way, making out a cheque to 'The Friends of Detling
Church'.
