THE CAUSE

You can make a difference by donating today to St Georges Church, Shimpling. Our aim is to restore the beautiful stained glass window in the East Chancel of the church and to repair the surrounding stonework inside and out.

Over the past year we have worked hard to raise £51,500 from charity grants, from community fundraising events and from individual donations. We just need an additional £2,500 to reach our target of £54,000. It would be absolutely wonderful if you could help us with this final push.

THE CHALLENGE

From 5th - 12th October I will be cycling the length of the N2 route in Portugal which is the longest continuous road in the country and one of the longest in the world. A mythical and historical route, at 738km and with 10,000m of elevation gain, The N2 commences in the North of the country in Chaves and extends through the central region to Faro in the far South.

We will be cycling for six consecutive days with long days in the saddle, with our bags packed each day, loaded into a van and meeting us at the end of the day at the next hotel. I have had this challenge on my "bucket list" for a few years now so I cannot wait to start riding!

Historically, the N2 was Portugal’s main North - South connection. However, over the years, larger highways and toll roads have replaced this now quiet, rural and scenic road. It has an abundant mix of historical towns, rolling mountain vistas, local Portuguese culture and a rich heritage along its entire length.

THE HISTORY

St George's Church is a beautiful church in the rural village of Shimpling, near Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk. Shimpling has a population of 350. The church stands at the end of a long lane which is lined by 12 Lime trees, it is thought that these were planted for each of the disciples. There has been a place of worship on this site since before the Domesday Book. The church is medieval, dating back to 13th century and is a Grade 1 Listed Building.

The window is Victorian and made by the renowned glass maker, William Warrington. It was his first window in Suffolk and dates back to 1842.

RENOVATION WORK

The window will be removed and restored back to its former glory by a highly skilled, experienced glazier. At present some of the glass is missing and the church is exposed to the elements, the surrounding plaster is damp and falling from the walls. All the surrounding stonework both inside and out will be repaired, repointed, and tiles outside will be replaced.

THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT