LET THERE BE LIGHT!

Our beautiful St Mary's Church at Huish Episcopi...despite ever falling congregations and the loss of our vicar, not a Wetherspoons yet!

However, the vultures are already circling.

Carry On Langport can report that in recent weeks there have been 'comments' about how much the electricity is costing for the floodlights on the tower at night.

In no particular order, it's worth making a few points here. Firstly, a lengthy power cut in Huish Episcopi at some point over the summer meant that the timer which turns on the lights was about 3 hours behind for several weeks until it was noticed and put right. This meant that the lights were coming on mid/late evening and not being turned out until around 3-4am. Hardly surprising that this attracted attention.

Secondly, 3-4 years ago an electrician told church officials that the lights on the tower were costing no more than a pound a week. [52 quid a year) But that could, of course, have increased recently.

Thirdly, when it comes to tower expenses - the structure, the bells, lighting etc - St Mary's should have no fears. 20 or so years ago a former bellringer (Mrs Astridge) left several thousand pounds to the church to be only spent on the tower and its needs. This money is still in the bank. Although how much is left and who controls the purse strings is something not many people are aware of. [funny that]

So in conclusion, let the lights continue to illuminate our wonderful tower and with the timer reset after the power cut over the summer and all those thousands in the bank let's have no more talk of money concerns eh for something that, if estimates are correct, is costing our dear church of England less than a hundred pounds a year.

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