St Edward, King and Martyr, Goathurst and St James Church, Taunton and the Church of St Peter and All Hallows, West Huntspill were just a few of the churches across Bath and Wells which took part in this year’s Heritage Open Days. A nationwide celebration of history and culture that takes place in every September, the day offered an opportunity to invite visitors into the church to learn more about the history of the building and to understand the role of the church at the heart of its community through the ages and in the present day.
In West Huntspill the Heritage Open Days coincided with the Classic and Vintage Vehicle Show which saw visitors come from as far afield as Gloucestershire, Devon, Bristol and even Oxfordshire, as well as from across Somerset attend. Initiated by past Rector and car enthusiast Rev Geoff Walsh and known locally as ‘The West Huntspill Car Show’, this year’s event hosted more than 160 cars, tractors, motor bikes and vans of all ages, shapes and sizes. Rector Christine Judson admits that she is hardly an expert in cars but said she “Deeply valued the opportunity to connect with people, hear their stories and journey alongside them.” The Car Show is a ‘well-oiled machine’ of an event which raises essential funds to maintain the local community-run Balliol Hall, as well as the Parish Church.
In Goathurst the weekend long event was a collaboration between Halswell House and Park, The Landmark Trust, the Temple of Pan, the Village Hall and St Edward, King and Martyr Church.
Brenda Smith, Churchwarden at St Edward, King and Martyr, said, “It was a resounding success! Visitors were extremely complimentary about our lovely village, the overall organisation and, most of all, the genuine sense of a community working together.”
In Taunton, St James Church played a central role in the town's Heritage Open Days, bringing local history to life through a series of reenactments. Characters from the church's past were portrayed by guides. The church tower, which is 120 foot high and has a commanding view of the town, was open for visitors.
While in West Huntspill the Car Show also coincided this year with the 25th Heritage Open Days, once again the Church of St Peter and All Hallows hosted organ recitals, craft activities and refreshments as well as sharing the many developments made through its ‘Saving the Heritage, Sustaining the Community’ Project as part of the open days event.