Visitors to All Saints during the first September weekend will have the chance to see, and taste, freshly produced apple juice as part of this year’s Doors Open ‘’Living Heritage’ theme.
A traditional hand-operated scratter and apple press will be just one of the items on display at the church to celebrate this annual weekend which has something to appeal to everyone.
Demonstrations will also be taking place on a spinning wheel by members of Wigtownshire Guild of Weavers Spinners and Dyers . In addition a video of church will feature members describing their experiences of working on the detailed commemorative textile panel they made to celebrate the church’s 150th anniversary November.
A new book on Challoch’s War Heroes is being launched at the event as a tribute to those who lost their lives in both World Wars. The nine war graves have been marked by a red stone to enable visitors to clearly identify the graves; while members of the Commonwealth War Graves Commission will be on hand on Sunday to explain their role in caring for gravestones of the war dead. Family historians can also revel in exploring the original birth, marriage and burial registers dating back to the 19th century.
Plantaholics will be able to satisfy their passion by visiting the plant stall as well as enjoy the colourful floral displays throughout the church on a natural theme. A self-guided tour of the church and a new display on Living Heritage will be available and volunteers will be on hand to answer any questions.. Visitors to the church on Saturday afternoon will also be serenaded by musicians on the organ, violin, and Celtic harp.
Last, but certainly not least, visitors can enjoy ‘tea with the Vicar’ in the refreshment marquee as Reverend Dawn Matthew will be on hand throughout the event.
She said: “We are really looking forward to welcoming visitors old and new to All Saints over the weekend. This is the third year All Saints has taken part in Doors Open and there will be plenty to see and enjoy including some family activities based around the church and its grounds to tie in with our eco-friendly approach..”
Entry to All Saints and displays and demonstrations are free. The opening times are Saturday 2nd September, 11am-4pm, and Sunday 3rd September, 12 noon – 4pm (following the morning service at 10.30am to which all are welcome). There is free car parking and disabled access and toilet block. More information about All Saints is available from https://www.allsaintschalloch.co.uk or email Lesley Miller at [email protected]
All Saints will also be holding a talk on The Ancient Art of Stained Glass on 14th September as part of Scottish Archaeology Month – details to follow.
Doors Open is organised by the Scottish Civic Trust, enabling everyone to enjoy entry to some of the country’s most interesting buildings free of charge. More information, including a list of the venues, is available from https://www.doorsopendays.org.uk
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