One of the key ways that church has always been expressed is when people gather together for worship each Sunday. Yet with the buildings closed for many weeks, churches have remained very much alive. Here Sarah Preece describes how Crediton Congregational Church adapted to lockdown and reflects on what really makes church what it is…and it’s clearly not the building!
One local woman has found a novel way to raise awareness about racism – by walking 140 miles around Mid Devon. Tsara Smith has a full time job, but has spent every weekend since early July walking and speaking to the people she meets about racial inequality, encouraging them to learn more about the topic and to donate to an anti-racist charity. Although Devon is a predominantly white county, says Tsara, people of colour are still experiencing racism in our midst.
Young musicians at Chulmleigh Community College have found a way to keep playing together in lockdown, whilst dedicating their performance to key workers and supporting a children’s charity. Their performance of the timeless classic Lean On Me by Bill Withers has so far had over 7000 views online and raised nearly £600 for the Teenage Cancer Trust, as Head of Music James Cookson explains.
If you’ve a birthday coming up, or are gift-shopping during lockdown, there are lots of options for shopping locally. Local marketing expert Charlie Richards has put together a range of ideas that make brilliant gifts and support our local businesses.
Village shops all over Mid Devon have come into their own during the current crisis. Even those run by volunteers are working hard to get food and supplies to their customers. David Plumridge, Chair of Cheriton Fitzpaine Community Shop, describes how the village rallied round to save their shop, which is now playing a crucial role in keeping people fed and safe during lockdown.
