Grinshill PCC minutes activity summary for parish council - Jan 2019

Grinshill church has returned to the pattern of hosting weekly services during the last six months, following the arrival of our new vicar Paul.  These have been well attended by villagers but we are slightly missing the presence of our friends from Clive who used to come across more during the reduced service rota of the interregnum.

A safety threat to the integrity of the church was identified in the laurel bush having grown unchecked across the church roof and already having one bough closer to the ground split off and fallen. Two other leaning branches were tall enough to have fallen right across the lane. As it was an immediate threat, the vicar reduced the bush to its core stem, which soon began to sprout again. Minor prior damage from the bush to the gutter and masonry subsequently became more evident. The yew canopy had also been affected more than noticed and may now grow forward. Shaping of the laurel bush can now take place from the multiple growth stems following brash removal if wanted. A problem with the drainage in that corner also became more evident, which needs more expert attention.

After complaints about the state of the new churchyard section, recuperative grass-strimming was initially done by the vicar, a self-seeded oak too close outside the church wall beginning to move the wall structure was removed and bramble clearing commenced. The diocesan tree surveyor was asked to visit and reported that the large sycamore condition was poor, perhaps because of grass clippings and grave spoil having been piled round the base.

The estate kindly removed most of the ivy growing along their tall wall.

A self-built singleskin wall adjoining the manor house began to collapse and has been cordoned off, pending height reduction or rebuilding by the owner. Any suggestions for inexpensive remediation appreciated.

The financial sustainability of the church was reviewed with a simple SWOT analysis. This identified areas which need immediate attention and there will be more thought in the coming year.
 
The carol service was very well-attended and enjoyed- thanks are due to all those who make that such an annual highlight. Christmas morning service was particularly well-attended, with many children present. The beauty of our church has received much comment and its inclusion in the Shropshire Churches Tourism brochure was arranged.

The Benefact editor moved away and a new editor from Astley, Margaret Morris, kindly agreed to take over.

Work on a team website for our benefice area of Grinshill, Clive, Astley and Hadnall has begun and it is hoped to become operational before Easter.

Any people desiring home communions or welcoming a pastoral visit would be appreciated by the vicar. Please ring Rev. Paul Cawthorne 07981 345820.