THE FRIENDS OF ST. MARY'S CHURCH, COWES

The 'Friends' were formed in 1997 as a non sectarian organization with the object of raising funds for the upkeep and betterment of St. Mary's church and its grounds. At the time the organization was established the church was in need of urgent major repairs and the vital  funds in order to take on such work. The initiation of the 'Friends' was at the instigation of the St. Mary's Parochial Church Council. A committee was formed from church members and those outside interested individuals who were able to devote their free time and expertise in establishing a fund raising organization.

The president of the 'Friends,' as well as a founder member, is Canon Richard Emblin, present vicar at St. Mary's.

Cowes town councilor, and mayor at that time, Geoff Banks, was invited to chair the committee and remains chairman as at this time.

Support for the organization is afforded by those members who have joined the society of the 'Friends' and it is with their continued support and subscription that the organization has gained its strength and commitment. STATUS OF ORGANIZATION The Friends of St. Mary's Church Cowes is a Registered Charity, No 1081108. The organization is bound by its Articles of Association and hold annual AGMs to which the members are formally invited.

MEETINGS

Meetings are held in the Parish Hall annexed to the church and are held, generally, at six- weekly intervals subject to the extent of business pending.  All meetings are minuted and controls for discussion and resolutions are democratically undertaken.

The Treasurer reports on the financial affairs of the organization at each meeting.

FUND RAISING VENTURES

Many fund raising events have taken place since the inception of the organization. Most are held at the church and comprise of musical recitals, exhibitions and talks on matters of local interest. The church has welcomed Gospel, Polish and Russian Choirs, Military bands, Orchestras and a variety of illustrated talks on a miryad of topics. The Church Hall has been host to various exhibitions and talks having the ability to provide a full catering service via its new kitchen and recent refurbishment.

Many events are held at other venues such after dinner speaking, Fashion Show, sponsored walks, barbecues etc.

The committee continuously seeks new fund raising ideas and welcomes invaluable input from any interested parties.

ACHIEVEMENTS

To date the 'Friends' have been party to the raising of over £350.000 which has been expended on major repairs to the Grade 2 listed church.  Funds have been accumulated from many quarters and English Heritage has  played a major role in financing recent repair projects to the John Nash tower and the roofs and rainwater castings to the northern slopes and the chancel.

HISTORY OF THE CHURCH

A church was first established on the site, formerly owned by the Stephens family, as early as 1657 when the building was a Puritan meeting house then known as "West Cowes Chapel". In 1816 a tower was added to the then building by George Ward to provide pews and a vault for his family, the then owners of the estate which bounded the church grounds.

The tower was designed by John Nash the famous architect of East Cowes who had made a name for himself as a prolific designer and developer in London. Work to the main body of the church some years later by the raising of the outer walls deemed the building unsafe and apart from the tower the church was demolished and rebuilt in 1867.

Those visiting the church today will see the contrast between the old and new where Victorian brickwork adorns the rebuilt interior. 

JOINING THE FRIENDS OF ST. MARY'S, COWES

If you are interested in joining the 'Friends' the cost of membership is only £5 per person per annum. Subscription can be 'gift aided' whereby taxpayers can be assured that all of their donation goes to the organization.  Members receive regular updates on events and as to how the fund raising is progressing and are kept informed on future repair works which are ongoing. Those wishing to be more proactive are most welcome to become a co-opted as a committee member or be nominated to sit on the committee.

Anyone who wishes to join with us in furthering our exciting fund raising ventures for the repair of this beautiful and historic church can contact the Secretary, John Denham whose contact information is as set out under "Committee Structure

"Photographs kindly contributed by Mick Sivell"