Whitley

The church was originally built in 1867, extensively remodeled in 1985 and redecorated throughout in 1997 following a large damp-proofing project. Storms the following January caused damage to the roof but insurance monies enabled the repairs to be satisfactorily carried out. Although small in number we have a sound and attractive building and we work closely together as a fellowship, and are committed to maintaining a Christian witness within the village.

Minister

Revd. Alison Morley

Tel. 01225 702232

e-mail : amorley@wiltsunitedchurches.org.uk

Click HERE for Revd. Ali's reading extracts and study papers.

Location; From Melksham take the Bath road for approximately 2 miles. At traffic lights take right fork signposted Corsham. Proceed past two left turnings, take the third left into Top Lane. Continue for approximately 300 yards and Church is on the left, set back a little from the road.

From Corsham take the Melksham Road, continue straight for approximately 2 miles until sign for Whitley. Take the first right into Top Lane, Continue for approximately 300 yards the Church is on the left, set back a little from the road.

Minister with Pastoral care	Revd. Alison Morley
Senior Steward and Secretary	Mrs Gill Fletcher
Church Treasurer	Mrs Brenda Tate
Organist	Mrs Geraldine Mann
Property	Mrs Geraldine Mann, Dr Derek Tate, Mr Eric Fletcher
MHA	Mrs Geraldine Mann
Publicity	Mrs Gillian Fletcher
NCH	tba
Communion Preparation	Mrs Cecily Brownrigg
Communion Steward	Dr Derek Tate
Welcome	Mrs Joan Jackson
Area Representatives	Mrs Elaine Greatwood, Mrs Gill Fletcher
Lettings	Mrs Gill Fletcher
Pastoral Carers	Mrs Cecily Brownrigg, Mrs Gill Fletcher, Mrs Geraldine Mann

Although small in numbers we extend a warm welcome to all visitors who care to join us at our 10.30 am Sunday Service, followed by coffee/tea and biscuits..

Geraldine Mann described Whitley’s redevelopment plans. Since the coming together with previous congregations of Broughton Gifford and Melksham Forest Churches when their church buildings were sold, Whitley’s congregation has quadrupled, not only by these two additional congregations but ‘newcomers’ The premises themselves are also being used more both for church and village activities, all ages 4-94 yrs. are coming thro’ their doors. However the facilities are not fit; more space and better conditions are needed. Preliminary plans are with the architecture and funds are available. At this meeting on behalf of Whitley, Geraldine’s presentation was to inform us on how they wish to move forward.

In conclusion the Chairman summarised: Whitley’s re-development plans. The meeting affirmed its support for the church’s plans both for their building and any opportunities which as a consequence may arise to meet and interact with the local community and its needs.

On Tuesday 12^th March we gathered at the Church at 2.30pm with great anticipation for our first Games Afternoon, and what fun we had!

There was a tremendous selection of games: board games, card games, table skittles, to name a few.

The main attraction was the Wii where you could play ten pin bowling, boules, tennis, which became quite competitive, and cow racing which caused a lot of hilarity, so much so that we nearly forgot to make the tea and hold the raffle.

If the noise level was anything to go by then the afternoon was a great success. If you missed this event then why not join us next time on the 9^th April 2.30pm – 4.30pm to join in the fun.

How does BOOK SWAP work? Just bring a book that you don’t need any longer and exchange it for one that takes your fancy. People are very generous and have donated our large collection which now suits most tastes.

Does it only have to be one book? No. Bring as many as you like and swap them for a similar number. People have been so generous and brought bagfuls of books and taken only a few away, there is a steady flow of different reading material. If we know your preference for a subject/author we can sometimes guide you to your choice.

How long should I keep the book? As long as you like there are no late fees!

How much does it cost to use the Book Swop? Nothing. This is a service to the village. However if you wish to sit and skim through your latest book, you may like to enjoy tea or coffee with a piece of cake (£1.00 inclusive), and possibly a chat with a fellow villager. We also sell whole cakes!

What kind of books are there? Fiction, non-fiction, biographies, children’s, magazines, DVDs, and videos.

Click HERE for a poster to tell you about the new Monthly Craft and Chat Afternoons

Please note, the craft and chat afternoons now also have a new time. It is from 2.30pm – 4.30pm

I have just spent a most enjoyable 2 hours at our monthly "Craft & Chat" at church. There were seven of us in total, sitting in a cozy circle at the front of the church. Three of us did some knitting, one some useful handiwork, while the remaining three just "chilled out" and chatted. No, that's not quite true - we all chilled - and chatted, drank tea - and chatted, ate cake - and chatted, for the entire two hours!

There is something very therapeutic about being in a comfortable environment, exchanging views, teasing one another, having a laugh together. We did all of these things, covering very disparate subjects, some froth, some substance. We call it "Craft & Chat" but no-one actually has to do anything. Just come and enjoy the companionship once a month for a couple of hours, with friends. You will be very welcome.


		This set of pictures was taken at a remembrance service for Lyn Hawkins, held on 18th February 2011, with friends of Lyn, and others, from Melksham United Church. Kindly supplied by Patsy Samm.