Howard and Gwen Gardner were well known and highly respected in the St James and Emmanuel community.
The Gardner Legacy is substantial and has afforded the parish the opportunity to contemplate several important improvements to the fabric of both churches. It was given without pre-conditions, so it will continue to be used to good effect.
The initial investment has been at Emmanuel. The refurbishment of the toilets included a Changing Places facility, considered the ultimate in provision for people with severe motor disabilities. The church is more than happy for people to use the facilities whether or not they are visiting us or shopping, eating or drinking somewhere else in the village.
The next project is the relighting and decorating of Emmanuel church. This is primarily expected to save on electricity running costs, as the system is converted from old fashioned unreliable halogen and filament lamps to a dependable LED digital system. Redecoration will follow to complement the new lighting system.
At St James, Howard and Gwen’s legacy will fund investment in a new soundproofed meeting space in the vestry, which will accommodate Sunday children’s groups among other potential users.
