MAY I thank your readers, who have recently contributed so generously towards our Pledge Appeal to keep St.

David’s Church, Hundleton, open.

At the beginning of November St David’s was over £9,000 in arrears with what we need to raise to meet the payment of Ministry Share to St Davids Diocese and the local running costs of Monkton Rectorial Benefice, of which we are part.

The Monkton RB Parochial Church Council then decided that, unless this deficit was reduced by £5,000 by December 31, it would be necessary to begin taking steps to close St David’s.

Faced with this challenge, the Friends of Hundleton Church launched an appeal for pledges to enable us to keep the church open, and your newspaper was kind enough to help us publicise this appeal.

As a result, £5,250 had been received January 4, with more expected. This is a wonderful response.

As a direct result, the Parochial Church Council has now resolved not to initiate closure proceedings.

The surplus we have been given beyond the £5,000 target will be invaluable in reducing the outstanding debt, and we are very grateful for every penny that your readers have generously given.

We know that St David’s is only one of many churches and charities facing difficulties in these challenging times.

We pray and trust that the splendid generosity of everybody who has made a gift will enable us as Christians to continue to serve the needs of the community in the growing village of Hundleton.

GEOFFREY HOWELL

Team Vicar,

The Rectorial Benefice of Monkton