Blakesley, and
the neighbouring hamlet and ‘civil parish’ of Woodend, form the largest of the Benefice parishes with a combined population of over 600. We are a lively, socially and demographically diverse community. The village has recently been awarded ‘Best Small Village in Northamptonshire’ and has a good range of amenities and activities for its size.
Our beautiful 13th century church, dedicated to St Mary, is in excellent condition. Built in ‘Early English’ style, it can seat around 300, has a very good organ, a ring of 5 bells and some interesting historical features. Our monthly Family Service is lay led by an enthusiastic team and seeks to actively involve all age groups. Members of the congregation participate in all services as sides-men, readers and intercessors. Some of our congregation sing in the excellent Benefice choir who attend and enhance the major services . We have a regular organist and a small music group who play at many Family Services. We offer refreshments after services and most people stay to mingle and share conversation and fellowship. Each month a popular ‘House Communion’ is held at Woodend. The parishioners of Woodend value this opportunity to worship together and it has a strong following.
Our PCC is currently quite small, but we have a larger group of willing helpers who organise flower arranging, fundraising, look after the churchyard, clean the church, organise rotas etc. We interact with our local community through Blakesley CE primary school and various fundraising events. Our major fundraisers are Open Gardens, talks organised on various topics, an Autumn Fair and some small events organised on an ad hoc basis.
Churchwardens: Mary Barnett - maryebarnett@btinternet.com and Paul Parsons - paul@southfieldshouse.co.uk