St. Helen, Thornby

The Village

Thornby is the smallest village in the group, clustered around the A5199, south of J1 on the A14. The 16th century pub stands by the road, and is more visible than the church which is set back from the road on the opposite side. A large part of the village still belongs to one family. The church owns two fields; one is rented to a local farmer, and the other is the Poor’s Land. The rector of the parish has historically been a trustee of the Poor’s Land. Several of the houses are on assured shorthold tenancies, but the majority belong to long-term residents.

Amenities and Activities

When the church school closed, the School House was sold as a private dwelling, but the Diocese retained the School Room. It is currently leased to the Village Hall Committee, and used as a Village Hall. The church gets a small rent and has free use of the Hall once a week. The Hall has suffered with extensive dry rot, but has recently been refurbished, with financial help from BIFFA, who have a nearby landfill site. A weekly fitness class has now started, and it is hoped to found a Youth Club.

The Church Building

The font has fragments of ancient carving around it, probably older than the medieval church fabric. A substantial North Aisle was added in the 19th century, and a pew was removed in the 1920s for the Duke and Duchess of York who came to church here. The Yorks took a house in Thornby for the hunting for several seasons, and they are still remembered. After the 2000 quinquennial a major restoration had to be carried out, and by last year the interior was dry enough for the interior to be redecorated. It is now in excellent shape.

Ministry

There is an 9.30 service once a month. The organ has recently been refurbished. 

Contacts

For pastoral matters or to enquire about booking any services, please contact the Rector Reverend Allison Twigg. Details can be found on the Contact Us page.

Safeguarding

Here in the Uplands Group of Churches we take the safeguarding of the people in our churches very seriously

“We recognise that the welfare of every person is paramount regardless of age, disability, gender racial heritage, religious belief or their sexual orientation or identity. They have the right to equal protection from all types of harm and abuse.”

SAFEGUARDING IS EVERYONE’S RESPONSIBILITY

Visit the safeguarding page on this website for more information about how you can play your part in safeguarding everyone who comes to our churches in the Uplands Benefice