ST Leonard’s annual Snowdrop Weekend on 16 and 17 February is fast approaching and retiring vicar, Canon David Rogers, is using the occasion to launch a gift weekend to raise funds to improve the church’s facilities.

The Development Project Appeal, will see the popular rural church’s meeting room, kitchen and disabled access upgraded to complement the existing tapestry room.

Canon Rogers, who has presided over the Beoley for the last 23 years, is taking the opportunity to invite families with whom he has had connections over those years, to visit the church and help him kickstart the appeal by giving a donation.

He said: “I’ve enjoyed my time with St Leonard’s immensely, and would like to hopefully encourage local people who have made use of the church for local worship, as well as family occasions such as weddings, christenings and funerals, to make a gift.

“The church has a strong basis in the community and is extremely popular but we need to improve our facilities. It would mean a great deal to me to be able to give the project a sound base from which my successor can go forward.”

The church and grounds will be open for visitors on Saturday, February16 from 10am-4pm and on the Sunday from noon-4pm, as well as for the four services throughout Sunday. On Sunday evening a special marriage affirmation service at 5.30pm is being held for couples wishing to renew their vows.

For more information about St. Leonard’s, see stleonardsbeoley.org.uk.