Members will be aware of the great strides made over the past couple of years to bring one of the historic treasures of Ipswich, St Clement’s, back into use for its local community. Phase one of the project, during the winter of 2021/22 removed the old, uneven floor and replaced it with a gleaming new floor of marine timber, appropriate for the mariners’ church, making it suitable for many uses.

This year we have moved on to phase two, including a new water supply and drainage, safety and electrical works, and installing toilets below the bell tower. It is an expensive project, and we have fortunately had some grants and donations to help. Of course, the more money the Ipswich Historic Churches Trust can collect for the project, the further we can work through our wish list.

The aim is to make this a community hub, for entertainment arts and events for a few more hundred years.

Individuals, groups and organisations can now donate directly to support the restoration of St Clement’s through the Parish Giving Scheme website. Named individuals can also sign up so their gift can benefit from Gift Aid, or it can even be anonymous. It is also possible for donors to set up a regular monthly payment.

Have a look at the parishgiving.org.uk website. If you want to help, look for Ipswich Historic St Clements.  The registration number is 33A63307. It couldn’t be easier.

David Vincent

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