£1,000,000 raised for Rutland’s Churches: Rutland Historic Churches Preservation Trust Celebrates 70 years of fundraising in the County
On April 2nd, the Rutland Historic Churches Preservation Trust (RHCPT) celebrated 70 years with an event at All Saints Church in Oakham. Over 140 guests gathered to honour the Trust’s contributions, which include over £1 million in grants awarded to churches of every denomination in the County Rutland since its founding in 1954. All Saints Church itself recently benefited from a £20,000 grant to support its new lighting project.
Peter Lawson, Chairman of RHCPT, reflected on the Trust’s journey from modest beginnings with just £10 to becoming a cornerstone of church preservation in Rutland. Through public donations, legacies, fundraising efforts, and prudent investment management, the charity has grown significantly.
Guests were invited to explore displays showcasing the Trust’s 70-year history, including historical documents and examples of restoration projects funded by its grants.
Dr. Sarah Furness, Lord Lieutenant of Rutland and President of RHCPT, highlighted the architectural and historical significance of Rutland’s Churches, as well as their importance to the social fabric of local communities. She also addressed the challenges facing these historic buildings, including rising repair costs, declining congregations, and aging church management teams. She issued a heartfelt appeal for public support to ensure these treasured landmarks are preserved for future generations.
Looking ahead, the charity’s biennial Ride and Stride event will take place this year on September 13th. This popular fundraiser involves participants visiting as many churches as possible in a single day while raising sponsorship funds. Since its inception in the 1980s, Rutland has consistently led the nation in per capita
The formal proceedings ended with a few words form the charity’s Patron, Bishop Debbie Sellin, the Bishop of Peterborough.
The evening continued with a demonstration of the new lighting in All Saints by Revd Stephen Griffiths, and his thanks to everyone who had contributed to the project.
fundraising for this event, with nearly all its churches opening their doors to visitors.
The evening then concluded with a special musical presentation by renowned conductor and organist David Hill, accompanied by pianist Anne Bolt.
The celebration underscored the enduring value of Rutland’s churches and the vital role RHCPT plays in safeguarding them. As it enters its eighth decade, the Trust remains committed to its mission but calls on public support to continue this essential work.