St. Wystan’s Church is forming a Friends group for those in the community who are not members of the congregation, but wish to support the maintenance and improvement of the church building, as a precious part of Repton’s history, a prominent landmark, and a community asset. 

Friends of Repton Parish Church has been set up as a registered charity with trustees, currently chaired by the vicar, being a mix of members of the congregation, representatives of the local community, and others interested in the history and archaeology of the building.  Trustees are the vicar (ex officio);  Virginia Davis and Stephen Gould (representatives of the Parochial Church Council); Andy Austen, Richard Finch, John Perks, Jonathan Sheldon, and Mel Thomas.

Professor Mark Horton, who with Cat Jarman has led recent excavations in the vicarage garden, has agreed to be President of the Friends. Professor Martin Biddle, who for many years led excavations around the building is a patron along with Mr Mark Semmence, Head of Repton School. Previous Bishops of Repton are also supporters as honorary patrons.

It is envisaged that Friends will be involved with practical help maintaining the building and churchyard, and also with fundraising for specific projects. It has been suggested that the initial Friends project will be funding new energy efficient floodlighting to illuminate the spire and tower, replacing the previous set up that has been out of use as it has been impossible to obtain replacement bulbs.

For more information about the event and how to become a Friend, see www.friendsofreptonparishchurch.co.uk, call 01283 619686, or talk to one of the trustees.