The funds raised in 2012 wil be split between our three nominated good causes:
60% St Mary's Church roof fund
35% Macmillan Cancer Support
5% Bramshott Sunken Lanes Project
St Mary’s Bramshott
St Mary's, Bramshott is the ancient church in the original centre of the village, appropriately sited on the corner of Church Road and Church Lane, and regularly attended by a loyal local congregation who enjoy the traditional form of Anglican service.
The church building itself is set above the sunken lanes and has a beautiful open churchyard of about 5 acres, making it one of the largest in Southern England. The churchyard includes over 300 WW1 Canadian war graves, beautifully arranged in a formal setting adjoining the wall of the ancient Bramshott Manor. The chancel and transepts of the church date from 1220, whilst the nave was rebuilt in the 1870s
The age of this important building means there is a constant and substantial requriement for repairs and maintenance, and recent projects include an overhaul of the aged heating system and various internal improvements. In past years the Open Gardens weekend has helped raise funds toward upkeep of the bells, and the famous church clock, which keeps accurate time and, appropriately in its historic context, faces Bramshott Manor.
Over the last year a professional survey has identifed major long-term repairs needed for the church roof, with a current estimate of £243,000. Applications have been made to English Heritage for a grant, and a busy fundraising committee have hosted events and launched a membership scheme to raise funds. So far about half of the total has been raised, and to help support this important local effort 60% of the funds raised in 2012 will be donated to the roof fund.
Please click here to see how you can help St Mary's
Bramshott Ancient Sunken Lanes Project
Theories differ as to the origins of the ancient sunken lanes that criss cross this part of Northeast Hampshire. As the area has been continuously inhabited since before the Iron Age, it’s easy to imagine that the wear of feet, animals, and carriage wheels over millennia have worn theses timeless ruts into our beautiful landscape. They are certainly very atmospheric throughout the seasons and give Bramshott and other local villages a very distinctive character.
Bramshott itself boasts several sunken lanes, including Church Lane, Woolmer Lane, and Rectory Lane. Topped by beeches, oaks and hollies, these deep passageways and lanes are an obvious and symbolic reminder of the ancient heritage of this area, and with increased traffic levels over the last few decades have certainly proved memorable to local drivers!
The Sunken Lanes Project is an offshoot of the Bramshott and Liphook Preservation Society, and aligned with the River Wey Trust. The Project was established in the early 1980’s to help preserve and protect these ancient ways, and regularly arranges volunteer weekends, aided by professional tree surgeons, to help manage and clear the banks and overhanging trees. This also ensures enough light penetrates the canopy to encourage new growth and shoots which will in time help to strengthen the banks themselves and so help protect them for future generations.
The “original cause” of the sunken lanes was also remarked upon by the author and renowned naturalist Gilbert White, who is often cited as the world’s original ecologist. He is said to have stated that the ugly appearance of the damage caused not only by water erosion but also by the amount of traffic that used the area, which does 'affright the ladies . . . and make timid horsemen shudder'. !
The Sunken Lanes Project receives funds from the Bramshott Open Gardens weekend to continue their good works, and help protect this unique environment for present and future generations of residents and visitors.
Macmillan Cancer Support
Macmillan is one of the UK's most recognised and popular charities, focusing its efforts on helping and supporting cancer patients and their families.
In these circumstances people need practical support at home, so Macmillan provides anything from some precious time off for a carer, to a lift to hospital. They are also a force for change, listening to people affected by cancer and working together to improve cancer care. The charity strives to make a positive difference to the lives of people affected by cancer. This could be anything from getting a coffee machine installed in a waiting room, to bringing about changes in the law. Macmillan raises money – through marathons, coffee mornings, street collections, sponsored events, and also gives time generously – at cancer care centres, events, and through local fundraising groups.
The Bramshott Open Gardens weekend directly supports the Midhurst branch of Macmillan, and our funds have in the past enabled the purchase of essential equipment, including beds and specialised furniture.
Macmillan Cancer Support Midhurst Fundraising Office
1-2 Peachey House Bepton Road West Sussex GU29 9LU
Tel: 01730 816065
Email
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Web: www.Macmillan.org.uk
