New churchyard path laid at St. Mary’s, East Guldeford
Visitors to St. Mary’s Church, East Guldeford, are now enjoying a greatly improved approach thanks to the successful completion of a new pathway project, part-funded by the Romney Marsh Historic Churches Trust.
The Trust awarded a grant of £4,983 towards the relaying of the churchyard path, with additional contributions from the church itself and another supporting trust. This collaborative effort has transformed what was once a difficult and uneven route into a safe, accessible pathway for all.
Repair/restoration photos courtesy of St. Mary’s Church PCC
The impact of the work was felt immediately. Remarkably, the newly completed path was put to use just in time for a funeral and burial held at the church. Undertakers and pallbearers, long accustomed to navigating the previous rabbit-holed grit path, expressed their appreciation for the smooth new surface.
As with many church projects, progress required patience. The Faculty approval process took some time, and once permission was granted, persistent wet weather delayed the start of work. However, when conditions finally improved, contractors B.E. Ames stepped in to deliver the project with their usual care and efficiency. Darren and Lewis worked tirelessly to complete the transformation, finishing just two days before the funeral. Their attention to detail was evident throughout, even extending to the import of topsoil to ensure the edges were left neat and tidy.
The new path not only enhances accessibility but also supports the church’s growing role as a venue for community events - see below for some upcoming events at St. Mary’s and follow the church Facebook page to find out more.
The completion of the path marks an important step forward for this church, ensuring that this historic building remains welcoming and accessible for generations to come.
Such work is only possible through the dedication of local church volunteers, and the funds raised through RMHCT memberships and donations. We warmly encourage visitors to see the new path, to see how your support makes a direct difference.
More information about St. Mary’s and its extraordinary history can be found through our free audiovisual guide. We also offer guidebooks for sale.
Upcoming Events at St Mary’s
Follow St. Mary’s Church on Facebook to find out more.
The church warmly invites everyone to celebrate both the new path and the return of seasonal gatherings:
Photo courtesy of St. Mary’s Church PCC
Sunday 3 May, 2:30pm
Blessing of the Lambs & Dedication of the New Path
This popular team ministry service will once again feature ewes and lambs in the churchyard - an uplifting and memorable sight among the headstones and spring bluebells.
Looking further ahead, St Mary’s is also pleased to be part of the Rye Arts Festival programme:
Thursday 18 September, 3:00pm
A Talk on Iconography
An experienced iconographer will visit the church to display her work and offer insights into the meaning and tradition of iconography. Refreshments will be available, and visitors can also make use of the church’s new environmentally friendly composting toilet, which is already helping to expand the range of events that can be hosted.
If you value these buildings and would like to help us continue this vital work, please consider becoming a member, making a donation or leaving a legacy gift in your will. Your support directly funds the conservation that keeps these remarkable churches standing.
