“The three elements of our treasured historic environment which most people feel need protecting and preserving are the Country House, Fine Gardens, and the Country Parish Church. The first two have become popular attractions attended by thousands, but the Country Church is in crisis... and all 16,000 are at risk…”

Sir Roy Strong is a figure of international standing in the Arts world and a highly entertaining writer, gardener, broadcaster and speaker.  In his distinguished and frequently innovative career (which has included being Director both of the Victoria & Albert Museum and the National Portrait Gallery) Sir Roy has done much to raise the profile and popularity of Country Houses and Fine Gardens. He now turns his attention to the English Country Church.

We are delighted that Sir Roy Strong will be giving his entertaining evening ‘Saving the English Country Church’ at St. Edmund’s, Downham’s oldest, and only Grade I listed building.

In this fascinating talk, with a lively Q&A spot, Sir Roy recounts the many changes seen by ordinary churchgoers over the centuries. He then goes on to argue passionately for the future of our Country Churches, through the re-discovery of a key part of their original purpose, as extended-use facilities for the community.

This promises to be a fascinating and entertaining evening – not only for regular churchgoers, but for anyone and everyone who feels that our wonderful Country Churches are an important part of our national and local heritage, and cares about their future.