Burnham Market Churches - St Mary's

History

Although much of the church was restored in 1872 many early features remain.

The tower, of about 1310, is surmounted by a battlemented parapet of extremely rare carved scenes added about 1500. The porch, once two storied, is 15th century.  The south doorway is 14th century with a chancel arch of similar date.

The large east window was designed in 1953. During 2008 £80,000 was spent on a major refurbishment and renovation. This included cast iron guttering and down pipes to replace plastic and interior lime washing.

The paths and general work is often carried out by parties of parishioners.

Christ’s College, Cambridge is the Lay Rector.  On two occasions in the last ten years the College have given substantial grants for work on the chancel.

Fund raising events are held at, and around, the Burnham Market Craft Fair in August. Stalls are set up, usually in the church, and coffee, tea and light refreshments are sold from the churchyard. For two weeks in August the annual Art Exhibition takes place in the church.

All work is for sale and the commission is paid into the Church Restoration Fund. In 1995 a registered charity, The Friends of St. Mary’s Church, was set up. Helped by membership subscriptions and donations, but chiefly through social events, over £34,000 has been paid into the Restoration Fund. At all fund raising activities the PCC is greatly helped by parishioners and those from the wider community.