A step back in time at Leverington church is a great success, say organisers

An open weekend at Leverington church proved a huge success with around 200 people visiting to enjoy the displays and tower tours.

People enjoyed the chance to research their family trees, get a personal copy of the life of a love one commemorated on the village war memorial or simply see the last 100 years of village life depicted alongside two world war memorabilia displays.

Fenland Family History Society played evocative slides of the wars onto the south wall above the wartime display while Derek Nightingale, former church warden, did guided tours of the church.

Julia King, former churchwarden, took small parties up the tower which visitors reported as a steep climb but worth it for amazing views.

John Bush and his fellow bell ringers gave a demonstration of the art of bell ringing and Ted Otter demonstrated the dexterity needed to play a church organ.

Mary Watt, Chairman of the Friends of Leverington Church, said: “There was so much memorabilia on display that several Saturday visitors returned on Sunday so they could see everything!”

The heritage plan began with Terry Arnold, editor of the Leverington letter, beginning research for the exhibition in April.

Her husband Chris joined in the event by he and fellow classic Wolseley car owners parking their vintage cars outside the church for all to admire.

Mrs Watt said: “The exhibition was a huge undertaking but well worth it and judging by the comments in our visitors book very much appreciated - our American visitors were very impressed with their tower tour.

“Heartfelt thanks to The Friends of Leverington church and other kind volunteers who worked so hard stewarding, serving refreshments, donating delicious food, setting up, clearing away and to everyone who donated food, exhibits and their time.”