The Grove Church will be holding its third Star Festival to coincide with the town’s Christmas Market and St Swithun’s Church Christmas Tree Festival again this year. It will be open on Saturday 24th November from 10.00am to 5.00pm, Sunday 25th November from 12.00pm to 6.00pm, Saturday 1st December from 10.00am to 5.00pm and Sunday 2nd December from 10.00am to 3.00pm.
The festival originated from one of the church’s members wanting to show the town that although they may not be able to use the church for worship, it is still ‘open for business’.
From the feedback received at past festivals, the organisers also know this adds to the enjoyment of the festive season for the people of Retford and district, as well as visitors to the area. It also allows people to see inside the wonderful Grade ll listed heritage building. As one visitor wrote last year: “Beautiful display. Well done everyone”.
There is no charge for entry to the Star Festival, but donation boxes are available if visitors wish to use them. This year they are supporting the Bassetlaw Food Bank, having previously raised money for a Nottinghamshire-based Women’s Refuge and our Community First Responders.
With the help of our community, the organisers want to fill the church with stars. There will also be an area to remember people who have been very special to you, the ‘Wish Upon a Star’ area. They are also hoping to have a twinkling starlight walk around the interior of the church.
Unfortunately, the church is in need of some major repairs and the central part is still unavailable for public use. The Star Festival will take place through the foyer, walking along the sides and round the rear of the church worship area.
There will also be refreshments available and in the foyer, there will be craft stalls, tombola, sweets and activities for the children.
Please show your support for the festival and visit the church during this time. They are working very hard to make this year even better!
If you would like to have a display please contact Di Welchman at the Circuit Office on 01777 702786, or email di.welchman@trinitycircuit.net by Monday 29th October.
Vision 20/20 at Grove Street Methodist Church
The first building was erected in 1822 and replaced with the current impressive structure in 1880. Throughout its long history, Grove Street has played an important part in the community life of Retford. With a capacity of up to 600 seats it has one of the biggest and best auditoriums in the town and hosted a number of events ranging from brass band concerts to choral presentations.
Over the years, the building has been added to and modified to suit the changing needs of the congregation and the many and varied groups that meet on the premises.
A National Heritage Lottery bid that has been submitted to try and raise the funds to do the work required to bring this building back into use.
This work that needs to be done include securing and restoring the existing ceiling, replacing the heating system, constructing disabled access to the main entrance and repairing leaded windows to east and west towers.