The Friends of St. Peter’s raises funds for the maintenance, restoration, conservation and improvement of this outstanding GRADE 1 Listed Medieval Church in the village of Thornton.
The Friends of St. Peter’s organisation, formed in 1995, works tirelessly to fund projects to maintain and improve the building. Its membership is drawn both from within the congregation and from the wider community and is supported by many of the villagers of Thornton.
The ‘Friends of St. Peter’s’ was formed in 1995 by two parishioners in this rural village in Leicestershire – Kathryn & Shirley – after they had attempted to clean-up the mess the pigeons had made in the ‘Tower’. They realized that St. Peter’s needed help that could not be provided in the foreseeable future because of financial restrictions.
Today, over 25 years later, the organization is thriving and has over the years provided over £40,000 funding for many projects that just would not have otherwise been achieved.
Projects that the The Friends of St Peter’s have financed have included the installation of water to the church and the construction of toilet and kitchen facilities. The ‘Friends’ have also funded – with the help of grants – the installation of a new heating system and in 2019 supported the installation of three extra bells in the bell tower. Current planned projects include disabled access into the church and an improved play area for young children
There are two ways you can help; firstly by attending one of our fun and varied village events.
In addition, you could become a ‘Friend’. Subscriptions are just £5 per person per year.
The Friends is a purely voluntary organisation and is recognised as charitable by HMRC for tax purposes. To find out more or inquire about becoming a Friend.
2022 events
10th & 11th December Christmas Tree Festival
The Friends of St Peter’s are holding their fourth Christmas Tree Festival at the church over the weekend of 10th and 11th December. The theme of the Festival is “Colours of Christmas”.
If you would like to participate and decorate a tree based on topics associated with Christmas colours, please let us know by contacting Sue Bakewell on 01530 231625, Mary Gibson by email on baba.gibson@yahoo.co.uk, or Shirley Garlick on 01530230422 or email shirley.garlick19@btinternet.com.
Please note that only battery-operated lights are allowed. Trees up to 1m (38”) high will be displayed above floor level on boards, ledges etc and all trees over 1m high will be displayed on the floor.
There will be prizes in various categories and an impressive and colourful display of trees will make the Carol Service which starts at 6 pm on 11th December even better than ever.
We hope that the winner of each category will be announced during the Carol service.
Entrance to the festival will be 50p per adult, with refreshments available for a small charge.
For more information, please contact one of the people above.
All money raised will go towards the maintenance of this lovely 14th century listed building.
Click here to see reports on previous events
Thornton 