For the first time that anyone can remember, the registers of baptisms, marriages and funerals will be out on public display in Tarrington’s Parish Church as part of the Gift Day they are holding on Saturday May 2nd. The records, which date back as far as 1561, will be available between 10.00 am and 4.00 pm on that day.

“We hope that this will be of enormous interest to family history researchers, and that to look at the records in the church where the ceremonies took place will be an added bonus,” said Maurice Smith, one of the Wardens at St Philip and St James Church. “We know that family history is one of the most popular things on the World Wide Web but we hope this chance to see the real thing will interest the webs users as well as local people keen to research their own family history.”

Tarrington Church dates from the Norman period, 13th and 14th century and is a grade II* listed building. Things to look out for include both doorways, some stained glass that is original, a stone coffin and an effigy (stone sculpture) of a lady dated 1360. The Church is part of the Ledbury Group of parishes.

A gift day is an open day in the parish for all who live there, not just the regular churchgoers. It provides an opportunity to those who would like to support their church within the village. There will other things going on, including music recitals and bell ringing. Refreshments will also be available.

The Church hopes that all these attractions will bring in many visitors and parishioners who will want to make a financial gift towards the care and development of this much loved parish church. It is open from 10am until 4pm on Saturday 2nd May.

If you are interested in further details and a picture contact: The Reverend John G. Watkins 01432 890595

Anni Holden, Director of Communications
The Diocesan Office, The Palace, Hereford HR4 9BL
Tel: 01432 373342 mobile 07889 186316
a.holden@hereford.anglican.org
www.hereford.anglican.org