188 Years of The Stanhill Methodist Church

OF THE STANHILL METHODIST CHURCH 188 YEARS 1837 - 2025

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OF THE STANHILL METHODIST CHURCH 188 YEARS 1837 - 2025

John Wesley 1703 – 1791

The Founder of Methodism

John Wesley preached that God’s Love was for ALL people and through Jesus all people could know God’s Love forever. Preaching the Gospel is central to Methodism.

John Wesley recognised that lay people could be called and used by God to preach, hence Local Preachers, male or female, are accredited by the Methodist Church to lead Worship and Preach. They are a vital part of the Methodist Church , assisting ordained ministers. In 1744 the First Conference was convened by John Wesley. The Conference is the governing body of the Methodist Church and meets annually to discuss matters affecting the life of the church, the nation and the world. (There are 80 million Methodists worldwide – 2025) The President is always an ordained presbyter ( minister), male or female. The Vice President is always a lay person or deacon, male or female. At some point during the six day Conference the newly elected President sits on John Wesley’s chair and is presented with John Welsey’s field Bible. In Methodism everything is connected! We are connected to God through Jesus. The Methodist Church is called The Connexion, this dates back to the early days of the Methodist movement. Still, today, a group of local Methodist Churches is called a circuit

which is part of a wider District and in turn part of the whole Methodist Connexion.

Distinctive features of Methodism: The emphasis on ALL. Personal experience of God. Social Justice – our Faith is lived out in action.

Methodists have had a huge impact historically on areas such as: Education, Prison Reform, Emancipation for slavery, Workers rights and Trade Unions. Pioneers of alternative life styles.

John Wesley’s Rule

Do all the good you can, By all the means you can, In all the ways you can, In all the places you can, At all the times you can, To all the people you can, As long as ever you can.

Introduction 188 years of the Stanhill Methodist Church into a small booklet a challenge indeed !!

Some information has been taken from the Centenary and the 150th Anniversary booklets.

And some memories of events will be recorded from 1987 to 2025. It has been impossible to include every detail.

From the Centenary Booklet:

In the late 1700’s Local Preachers from Blackburn came to Stanhill and established a small society in the village.

In 1811 the society numbered 33 members but then it gradually decreased and led to its final abandonment as a preaching place in 1835.

The origin of the present church dates from the time when ‘8 poor men’ left Hippings Wesleyan Society, in Oswaldwistle, on questions of principle. During 1836 the men taught in the Primitive Methodist School at Foxhill Grove. Afternoon services were held of Thomas Barlow at Higher Twinch. Sunday evening services were held in the home of the Pemberton sisters at the end of Nab Lane on Stanhill Road. The services were led by local preachers from Blackburn and Clitheroe. The ‘8 poor men’ settled down in Stanhill and were the founders of the society in Stanhill. The names of these founders were: William Grimshaw, William Walsh, Thomas Johnson, James S. Brown, William Walker Openshaw and Mrsses Houlker, Nixon, and Barlow. They began to build a place. It was opened on February 26th 1837. Stanhill became a part of the Wesleyan Methodist Society. The First Sunday School Anniversary was celebrated on the First Sunday in May. Taking the Gospel out into the village. An orchestra played for the Hymn singing and a visiting minister was invited to lead the Worship for the day. People flocked to Stanhill for the occasion. Police on horseback had to control the crowds!

Sermons in the village 1910. Police on horseback had to control the crowds!

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In 1847 land was purchased on which to build a more substantial building for Worship. The land was bought for £15.13s. 4d with a lease for 5,000 years ! Then it was time to raise money to build the new church. In the meantime, in 1860, a weaving mill was built in the village. This increased both the population and the wealth of the villagers. In 1864 the Foundation Stone of the present day church was laid on 27th February. The church was built ! By 1866 Stanhill was a member of the Blackburn circuit. In 1871 the organ was purchased and installed. By 1872 The Accrington Circuit was named and comprised of Accrington, Foxhill Bank, Gt. Harwood, Stanhill, and John St. In 1873 it was decided to purchase the adjoining land to build a separate Sunday School. In 1881 the foundations of the present Sunday School were laid on October 1st. This was a red letter day, a procession was made through the village to Stanhill Hall, returning to church for tea and a concert. The building of the Sunday School enabled the church to be completed with fixed pews, with ‘hat pegs’ in most of the pews for the gentlemen to place their top hats ! and a heating apparatus was installed to heat both church and Sunday School. Total alterations costing nearly £800. The church was a square building with the main entrance at the side, opening at the foot of the gallery steps. Yes, a gallery was above the back of the church. A raised pulpit at the front with a Holy Communion rail below. Behind the pulpit was the choir stall and the organ, accessed by stairs through a door leading from the worship area. By 1881 Stanhill was a member of the United Methodist Free Church. In 1886 a meeting was held when it was decided to buy the two cottages standing between the church and the thoroughfare of Nab Lane. One of the cottages, number 6 and a passage wall were pulled down. Leaving number 7, which was then used as a workshop, without a ceiling !

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The rest of the site was cleared and made into a garden with stone boundary, iron railings and gate. This was to mark and celebrate the Jubilee in 1887. On 26th and 27th February, services were held, followed by a tea party in the schoolroom. During 1891 John St.Church decided to close due to many mills closing on account of bad trade and families moved elsewhere to find work. Some came to Stanhill and proved to be helpful workers. In 1892 the church suffered a heavy loss in the death of a most outstanding leader, Mr. Thomas Pemberton. A stone tablet was erected in church in memory of this devoted class leader and Sunday School Superintendent. The ladies effort took the form of a Pink Tea and was pink throughout. A selection of ladies choirs performed. The chair was occupied by Mrs. W.H.Bury. A speech was given by Miss May on Pink. The ladies effort raised nearly £10 more than the men’s contribution ! In 1901, another shock to the church, when Thomas Harrison aged 55, died on 29th November. A stone tablet was erected in church in memory of this upright and consistent member and class leader, and devoted teacher and Superintendent of the Sunday School. ‘Faithful unto Death’. In 1904 the young ladies decided to hold a series of ‘At Homes’. These were held annually at the end of February and continued into the late 1950’s ! Four nights of entertainment. The Schoolroom was transformed into a ‘home’ – people bringing table lamps, pictures etc. Alice May Bury made a mock fire place. Professional concert parties entertained. Friday night was Children’s night. Excited children said recitations, or played a musical instrument, or performed a pantomime. In 1899 an effort was made to keep the finances afloat. The men organised a concert party and tea which made £30.

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In 1907 Stanhill became part of the United Methodist Church – as a result of the United Methodist Free Church joining with the Methodist New Connexion and the Bible Christians to form the United Methodist Church. 1910 – changes once again Gt. Harwood & Rishton formed one circuit. Accrington. Foxhill Bank and Stanhill formed the Accrington Circuit. 1911 – The front porch was built and opened, with double doors at the front. The old entrance on the side was walled up. This enabled two more pews to be added. With the gallery and choir and down stair pews, the church could seat 200 people. The kitchen and vestry were built and opened on 11th October by Mr. JT Foulds of Accrington. A dedication service was observed followed by tea and a concert. 1914 The Great War – 36 young men went to service. 32 returned in 1918. It was decided to show a sense of gratefulness by adding a tremulant stop to the organ. There was an organ recital in memory of the four lads who lost their lives. A stone Baptismal Font was gifted to the church in memory of the late Mr. Edward Boardman, a class leader, and loyal member of Stanhill. In 1925 the first baby to be Baptised from this font was Hilda Gregson. Baby Hilda lived with her parents, Hilda and Richard Gregson at number 8 Nab Lane. Richard, known as Rex, was a joiner and the local undertaker. He had his workshop at number 7 Nab Lane, where he made coffins, and he made the Communion Table and chairs for church. A craftsman indeed ! Baby Hilda grew up and became Hilda Slater, the village postmistress, taking over from Alice Taylor. Hilda lived with husband Alan and their daughter Lynda in James Hargreaves’ cottage, which became the village Post Office, sweet and paper shop. The extension to James Hargreaves’ dwelling was built in the 1870s for the headmaster of St Matthew’ school, and was named The School House. Hilda continued to be a member of the Stanhill Methodist Church and Lynda was Harvest Queen in 1964.

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In 1932 Stanhill became part of the Methodist Church of Gt. Britain - as a result of the union of the Wesleyan Methodist Church, the Primitive Methodist Church and the United Methodist Church. It is recorded that people paid for their pews. There is a number at the end of each pew. Woe betide if you sat in anyone’s pew ! Also the congregation paid 6d for Holy Communion, which was given to the ‘poor fund’. In 1932 it was decided to form a company of Girl Guides and on the Sunday January 1st 1933 a service was held for the dedication of the Colours by Rev. Frank Fox. The company were known as as the No. 5 Company, Church and Oswaldtwistle Section. Unfortunately they didn’t last long due to lack of numbers. In 1936 preparations were planned for the Centenary Year in 1937. In order to commemorate the centenary and in thankfulness for 100 years of God’s gracious mercy, they would remodel the organ and also improve the Primary department and store room. To accomplish this £500 needed to be raised. Events were arranged and ministers invited to preach during the Centenary Year.

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CENTENARY EVENTS 1937

Saturday February 27th The Great Re-Union 4:30pm Tea 7pm Rally Chairman: Mr. Robert May

Speakers Rev. R.W. Gair of Rochdale Rev. Arthur Myers of Nelson Soloists & The Choir. Organist and Choirmaster: Mr. A. J. Bury

Sunday February 28th Two Services 2pm & 6pm Preacher: W. M Simm Anthems by the choir. Saturday March 6th Tea 4:30pm 7pm ‘Toby’s Hike to Fortune’ – a sketch by friends from Mount Pleasant Sunday March 7th Two Services 2:30pm and 6pm Preacher: Rev. A. E. Bowyer of Gorlston-on-Sea. Anthems by the choir.

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Centenary Year 1937 - Church Officials and Leaders

Minister: Rev. F.A. Ashton Society Steward: Mr. Charles Bury. Poor Stewards: Mr. Dixon Robinson, Miss A.A. Bury.

Chapel Steward: Mr. Jos. Downham. Trustees’ Treasurer: Mr. Abel Bury. Trustees’ Secretary: Mr. Charles Gregson. Organist and Choirmaster: Mr. A. J. Bury. Choir Secretary: R. Gordon Whitham

Sunday School

Superintendents: Mrs. G.G. Grimshaw. Mr. Robert May. Primary Superintendent: Miss May Bury. Secretary: Mr. Norman Grimshaw. President, Men’s Class: Mr. Abel Bury. Vice President: Mr. Jos. Downham. President, Women’s Class: Mrs. W.H. Smalley. President, Wednesday Afternoon Class: Mrs G.A. Ashworth. President, Women’s Guild: Mrs J. Downham. Treasurer: Mrs. T. Hindle. Secretary: Mrs. D. Ashworth. Treasurer, Sunshine Band: Miss M. Grimshaw. Secretary, Sunshine Band: Miss May Bury. Sunday School Organists: Misses. D. Ashworth and I. Thompson. It is said in the centenary booklet that ‘We Pray that the blessing of God may rest on all our efforts, and that the Centenary Year will be a year of new resolutions and aspirations. Let us try to realise that we are heirs to a great heritage. Let us begin the second century of our church with greater devotion to duty to promote the spiritual wellbeing of the community in which we are placed and may our Heavenly Father aid our united endeavours.

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From the 150th Anniversay Booklet

Some of Wilfred Taylor’s memories: New Year’s Day Coffee & Bun. The annual ‘At Homes’ at the end of February, an event everyone looked forward to. First Sunday in May – the Sunday School Anniversary – the Sermons. Everyone invited their relatives for dinner and tea. The chapel was packed for all three services. The village was packed for the outside morning service. There were eight collectors and I, Wilfred Taylor, collected for over 50 years in the village. Harvest -- first Sunday in September. A platform was built across the front of the chapel. My dad and I took a cart to collect plants and greenery. There was a lovely display in the chapel. The fruit and vegetables were sold on the Monday night at the Harvest Supper. Some memories by Doreen Prescott nee Broughton: New Year’s Day - Coffee & Bun. Everyone took their own cup or mug. The buns were so big you didn’t need any dinner! There was a late afternoon Tea Party. Everyone took their own dishes and cutlery, all marked with coloured cotton thread, so you knew which belonged to who! Mr. Farnworth, the butcher, took joints of meat – ham and tongue – he was the carver. After tea the schoolroom was cleared and transformed into a theatre ready for a concert to begin. What a way to start a New Year ! The annual ‘At Homes’ were held the last week in February – Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday. Friday night was children’s night – the children doing recitations, musical items, dancing, singing & sketches. After, they were all given a bag of toffees for their efforts ! Saturday night was evening dress. A concert party from Burnley, Nelson or Blackburn performed. Each night there was always a chairperson and an opener. June Colbridge was one of the teachers who organised the children on their big night.

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June recalls how the children were quite bored listening to the Master’s Sister singers each year ! One year the lights on the stage floor were covered with coloured crepe paper to give a colourful effect, but the paper caught on fire causing a bit of mayhem !! June said the children liked performing Cinderella. Doreen thought Alladin was the last performance before the At Homes came to an end in the late 1950’s. A tradition enjoyed by everyone for just over 50 years ! April was Spring Cleaning month at church. Everyone had a job to get ready for the First Sunday in May - the Stanhill Sermons. Everyone cleaned their homes too ! It is said some villagers were up at 5am on Sermons’ morning cleaning the flags outside their cottages and hanging up new curtains at the last minute so nobody else would know the pattern and colour before the big day !! Everyone turned up in their Sunday best – the men in top hats and a red rose in their lapels. Police on horseback guiding everyone up to Stanhill and making sure the musicians could get by. An invited minister led the three services – 10:30am in the village, and 2:30pm and 6pm in church. The 10:30am service started in church before processing through the village following the minister and the Sunday school superintendents, stopping at various points to sing hymns and listening to the minister’s message. People in the village brought chairs out for the orchestra to sit on and for the conductor to stand on, so he could be seen by the orchestra ! Health and Safety and Risk Assessment were not in place in those days ! Other memories are of Sundays. Doreen recalled everyone meeting in church on Sunday mornings for open devotions led by the Sunday School Superintendent. After which, dispersing to their own departments - men upstairs in the men’s vestry, ladies downstairs in the Ladies’ vestry, each group listening to a speaker. The children were in the schoolroom and kitchen for their lessons. At the end of their classes they joined together for the Benediction by the Sunday School superintendent, Mrs May McMyn, who stood on the

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stage in the schoolroom. The afternoon and evening services were usually led by Local Preachers, who had to walk from Rishton, Gt. Harwood or Blackburn because there was no public transport. All the children had a Star Card which was stamped by Mrs McMyn if they had attended. A book was presented for good attendance, at the Prize Giving Service in December. Sunday School trips on the train to Lytham St. Annes was another highlight in the year. Annual Choir picnics was another memory for some, all bungling into Mr. Bury’s wagon to be taken to a farm near Edgworth. Other events during the year were, Sale of Works, Whist and Beetle Drives, annual Christmas Parties. Church outings in Albert Benson’s bus to the Ribble Valley, then onto Pilling to the Ship Inn for tea. After onto Blackpool – everyone dispersing – the Pleasure Beach for the youngsters. Vernie Whittam led the sing song on the bus on the way home. We are sure Albert Benson, the bus driver was fed up with the noise and pleased when we got back to Stanhill ! Another memory was the Good Friday walks over Whalley Nabs. Everyone met at 9am at the end of Nab Lane with two Hot Cross Buns, an orange and 3d which suppose to be spent on a gift for any parent who didn’t go. After the picnic at Whalley and a good sing song, they made their way back to Stanhill. Some arrived home with an armful of bluebells and feet full of blisters ! Just to mention that Tom Broughton and May McMyn became Sunday School Superintendents on 14th June 1946, taking over from Gladys Grimshaw and Robert May. Charles Bury continued to be the choirmaster, and conductor at the Sermons until the late 1940’s. In 1950, Wilfred Lister became choirmaster and conductor. He was also the church caretaker. His daughter, Irene, is still a regular visitor to Stanhill (2025).

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In 1957 records show that Mr. Charles Hyatt was the conductor of the orchestra for the Sermons. And no record of a choir from this date. Also in the 1950’s there was a Youth Club – the leaders were Tom Broughton and Tom Neville. Margaret and David Berry and many others, remember those days as the happiest in their youth. The timeline brings us to the 1960’s. In September, the beginning of the Methodist year, Rev. Frank Sanderson began his ministry in 1959, having Stanhill as one if his churches under his pastoral care. Young and enthusiastic - just what the congregations needed ! In 1961 the church was redecorated and everyone donated something. The Bury’s and McMyns donated the carpets. Mr. John Banyard, on behalf of the family gave the two brass flower vases. The hanging Cross light was given by Bena Broad (nee May), Elizabeth McMyn donated the two kneeling stools under the Holy Communion table, in memory of her grandad, Mr. Abel Bury, who passed away the year before. Abel Bury was a devoted member and treasurer of the church - a big loss to all the congregation, who were so grateful for his contribution to the chapel. To celebrate the refurbishment of the church, a service of celebration was held in May, when Cheryl, the baby daughter of Joan and Bill Law, was baptised. A privilege for them to have their baby baptised on such a special day. Cheryl’s mum , Joan and grandma, Betty Grimshaw were good workers at the church. On the first Saturday in April Bring and Buys were held. Two Ladies on the door greeting everyone. Two ladies were hostesses, all wearing button holes with pride. On the stage in the schoolroom was the chairperson, the guest opener, and someone who welcomed the opener and someone to thank the opener !

The bring and buy stalls were situated on the edge of the room.

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Card tables and chairs in the middle, each table covered with an embroidered table cloth, a small vase of flowers. Sandwiches and cake served. A ‘quirky’ tradition which lasted many years - the first Saturday in April at 3pm.

Edna Best the first Harvest Queen at Stanhill in 1961

In 1961 Edna Best, the first Harvest Queen at Stanhill was crowned by Mrs Sanderson. This tradition continued into the 1990’s.

Other events: Garden Parties were held at the home of Joe Aspinall at the top of Nab Lane. A Young Wives group was formed. Candle Light Services at Christmas gave an opportunity for reflection and to thank God for the year passed. In the mid 1970’s a Christmas meal was hosted by Kathleen and Kenneth Wray in their home they bought from Joe Aspinall.

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Kenneth (Ken) played the organ from 1975 to 1980 taking over from Bena Broad who played throughout the 1960’s. Sadly Ken passed away in 1980. Greatly missed by everyone. From 1980 to 1985 Ken’s son, Peter, played the organ and continued to play after coming home from university in 1988 until 2012. Elizabeth McMyn and Doreen Prescott helped out when needed. In 1983, May Mc Myn was presented with a picture of her favourite place, Downham. This was in recognition of her devoted and dedicated work as Sunday School Superintendent since 1946. So much appreciated. Edna Banyard became Sunday School Superintendent.

May McMyn being presented with the picture of Downham

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1983 March 23rd a great shock to hear of the passing of Tom Broughton. A plaque was unveiled in church by his loving family, dedicated to the life and memory of Thomas Broughton, a life long, true and devoted servant who gave his best for Stanhill Church, and Sunday School. Tom lived for his Church at Stanhill. Everyone respected him, he was a great leader and friend. He continues to be greatly missed. In the 1980’s it was decided to remove the stage in the schoolroom and lay a new floor – all sanded and polished for Edna’s dancers. The church was grateful to Geoff Plummer and Fred Silcock for doing all this work, as well as maintaining the church property year by year, saving the church a lot of money. Edna and Colin Banyard started the dancing classes. Beginners on a Tuesday and learn to ballroom dance on a Wednesday.

Edna & Colin Banyard dancing.

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Edna, with the help of Hilda Silcock organised Dances to help raise money for church.

Edna Banyard and Hilda Silcock - church stewards and best friends.

These dances were held at Harvey St. Community Center or the Poplar Club in Accrington. Doreen and John Prescott did the catering for the suppers. A Keep Fit Group met on Monday evenings organised by Edna and Hilda with ‘professionals’ leading the exercises. In the mid 1980’s there was a Junior club on a Wednesday for the 8yr – 11 year olds. And an Inters Club on a Friday for the 11yrs to 13 year olds. Ran by Doreen and John Prescott and Helen Plummer. In 1986 and 1987 four of the young people from the Sunday School won the District Scripture Exam Cup.

The church was so proud of Karl, Robert, Adam and Sarah.

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Scripture Exam photo of young people from the Sunday School who won the North Lancashire District Cup in 1986 & 1987. Sarah, Robert, Karl, Adam (left to right)

During 1986 came the sad news that May Mc Myn had passed away. Another stalwart who dedicated her life to the church she loved. May continues to be missed so much. Another loss in 1987 was that of Wilfred Taylor aged 90. Wilf was a trustee for many years and as mentioned collected in the village on Sermons’ day for over 50 years – an achievement he was so rightly proud of. He too is sadly missed. So this brings us to 1987 – the end of the 150th Anniversary year of Stanhill Methodist Church. By this time Stanhill was part of the Accrington and Haslingden Circuit. Stanhill was much more Circuit minded, attending Circuit Services and events, such as Circuit Fayres, circuit overseas and home mission events, JMA Rallies, Easter Offering Services to name but a few.

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Special Services: March 1st 2:15pm Guest minister: Rev. Wilf Green The service in the presence of Ken Hargreaves MP Mayor & Mayoress of Hyndburn, councillor Mr. & Mrs L Dickinson. Service followed by a buffet tea made and served by Doreen & John Prescott

May 3rd - Sermons 10:30am, 2:30pm & 6pm Rev. Edgar Kendrick.

September 6th 2:15pm - Harvest Rev. Fletcher Richardson Sarah Plummer was crowned Harvest Queen by Margaret Taylor.

Sarah as Harvest Queen with Margaret her crowner

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December 27th 2:15pm - Rev. W. Knowles – chair of North East Lancashire District. 1988 February 28th 10:30am - Rev. Trevor Bates. Minister of Stanhill and Rhyddings. Social Events: Feb 28th 7pm - Family Social March Pippa Dee Party (sale of ladies’ clothing) April 4th 3pm - Bring & Buy June 3rd 7:30pm - Coffee Evening. The young people entertained with playing guitars. July 11th 7pm - BBQ on the Pub field with games including egg throwing (raw eggs !)

BBQ on pub field

August 17th 7pm - Keep Fit Demonstration September 5th 7pm - Harvest Social October 17th 7pm - Family Social and Dance December 27th - Christmas Party 1988 February 27th 7pm - Family Social

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1987 Church Officers:

Stewards: Edna Banyard. Hilda Silcock

Church Council Secretary: Helen Plummer.

Treasurer: John Prescott.

Church Council members: Edna Banyard, Florrie Broughton, Mary

Grimshaw, Fred McMyn, Helen Plummer, Doreen Prescott, John

Prescott, Hilda Silcock, Margaret Taylor, Kathleen Wray.

Communion steward Florrie Broughton

Overseas Mission: Hilda Silcock.

J.M.A: Helen Plummer.

Women’s Work: Edna Banyard, Helen Plummer.

N.C.H. sec: Doreen Prescott

Property Steward: John Prescott

Junior Club Leaders: Doreen & John Prescott. Helen Plummer.

Ballroom Dancing: Edna & Colin Banyard.

Ladies Keep Fit: Edna Banyard, Hilda Silcock.

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What has happened since 1987! Stanhill Methodist Church 1988 to 2025

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The last of the old stalwarts Alice Hargreaves, Florrie Broughton, Mary Grimshaw, Marjorie Plummer (a new comer) Fred McMyn at the back.

In 1988 Some of us went on the Circuit Pilgrimage - ‘In the Steps of John Wesley’ from Baxenden to Huncoat along the King’s Highway. A picnic tea eaten before the 6pm service at Huncoat, entitled ‘How Great the Flame’. During the 1990’s: The Bring & Buys in April continued. Pippa Dee Parties, were still popular and also Tupperware Parties and Garage Sales at the Plummers’. All raised money for church funds. There were Scavenger Hunts, Car Treasure Hunts, usually finishing with a BBQ in the church garden. A walking group was formed, supported by young & old.

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Many memories of the walks, especially when we got lost and had to be rescued by one of the dad’s! The leader’s orienteering skills needed some improvement! The annual New Year Parties in January continued well into the 2000’s. Everyone enjoyed joining in the games. Brush in the Bucket was a favourite, as well as the Chocolate Game, and French Shopping. All the ladies emptied their hand bags waiting for an item to be called out, such as a lipstick. The runner from each team rushed with the item to the ‘caller’. First one there got a point! Kathleen Wray always had a pack of ladies’ tights, waiting eagerly for that item to be called! These Parties were fun for all ages! The annual BBQ’s in August at the Plummers’ were also enjoyed to celebrate the birthdays of three of our ladies: Mary Grimshaw and Marjorie Plummer sharing the 14th and Hilda Silcock on the 18th.

Birthday Girls! At the annual BBQ at the Plummers. Hilda Silcock, Mary Grimshaw, Marjorie Plummer (left to right)

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Christmas Dinners were hosted by the Prescotts and the Plummers, (in different years !) One year while everyone was enjoying the meal and fun at John and Doreen’s – the snow came down in buckets full ! What a shock to see the white stuff when the door was opened! It was quite deep but somehow everyone arrived home safely.

Doreen & John Prescott. Doreen & John were really the backbone of the church at Stanhill.

Our young people had the opportunity to join the circuit at the MAYC London Weekends (Methodist Association of Youth Clubs). Young people from all over the Methodist Connexion met up to have fun and fellowship together. In the early 1990’s Safari Suppers were popular. Starter in one home, travelling to the next home for the main meal, and then dessert in another home followed by coffee in another home. To raise money for church funds, Edna continued to organise Dances especially for Valentine’s Day, Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve and one or two more inbetween!

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Other money raising events was a Car Boot Sale on the pub car park. A very interesting day! On November 5th the church did a BBQ on the pub car park serving 500 burgers and hot dogs! A night to remember!! Sponsored Carol Sing in Church in December. Sunday School changed its name to Ujamaa. An African word meaning familyhood, togetherness. The young people met before the Sunday Service & then joined in with worship towards the end. This worked for sometime until the young people grew up & left. Ujamaa continued in a different format. Meeting on a Wednesday for adults & any age group. Afternoon tea, dominoes, board games, various activities including rambles. In the early 1990’s a Fellowship Group was started in the home of the Plummers. Other fellowship groups followed - ‘Food for Thought’, meeting on a Sunday evening in the Ladies’ vestry. Over a period of time this too was replaced with ‘Prayer & Share’ which alternated meeting at Stanhill and West End. In 1993 was the start of our connection with the Methodist Church in the Czech Republic. Dagmar, the 17 year old daughter of a Methodist minister in Brno, came to stay with the Plummer family for the Summer. Since that time exchanged visits have been made. A wonderful experience sharing our Faith with new friends and learning about a new country and language.

1995 March 14th Marcus Alan John Butt sadly lost his brave fight to the childhood cancer, Neuroblastoma aged 6 years old.

Marcus, precious son of Alison and doting grandson of Shirley & Alan. The family attended worship here at Stanhill when they were able. Marcus was baptised here. Shirley & Alan were part of Edna’s dancers. In memory of Marcus, the family had made & donated the Lectern, matching it with the

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Baptismal pedestal. A useful gift, well used, reminding us of the cheeky, happy little boy we all loved.

On May21st 1996 we heard the sad news that Florrie Broughton had passed away. Florrie was the Communion steward for many years. A hard worker for the chapel and kept us all on our toes with what was right. A good and loyal friend to all. Florrie was the supportive wife to Tom and together they worked tirelessly for the Stanhill Methodist Church. A Good Friday Ramble in 1998 was arranged to meet friends at the Whalley Methodist Church. The older members were taken in cars so that everyone could be together to enjoy a picnic & devotions. Also in 1998 we welcomed the Rev. Dr. Rebeka Maples from Ohio, USA. Rev. Rebeka came for a year to be minister at Stanhill and Rhyddings. Her ministry was a blessing to us. Rebeka has made many trips back to England since she left in 1999. And a group of us from Stanhill and Rhyddings have visited Thurston, Ohio. December 6th 1999 came the sad news that Alice Hargreaves had passed away a month before her 99th birthday. Alice was one of life’s colourful characters! Her Lancashire accent was fascinating and the stories she told were second to none! She wrote poems, ( some she adapted from others! ). She was a great entertainer and relished the limelight. She was in her element at parties and BBQ’s reciting her poems. Everyone was in awe of her. Alice was a devoted Christian lady, living out her faith on a daily basis and sharing it with others. Thanks for the memories Alice. You have enriched all of our lives. Thanks be to God.

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Stringed orchestra.

To recap on the Sermons and the changing format: Charles Hyatt from Oswaldtwistle, conducted the stringed orchestra, each one of them travelling from near and far – some from Blackpool, Barnoldswick, Gt. Harwood, Accrington. One of our church members, Gladys Smith, had played the violin in the orchestra since she was 10 years old with her father. Hymns were sung in different places in the village, interspersed with the guest minister giving mini-sermons. The last hymn and Benediction were held in the grounds of Stanhill Hall. Everyone then rushed home for dinner to return to chapel for the 2:30pm Service. The orchestra went back to the chapel kitchen where their dinner was made & served by Irene & Tom Neville with the help of some of their family. Always meat pie with all the trimmings, followed by apple pie & custard. Everyone back in time for the 2:30pm service– the minister having had lunch at the home of the steward. A buffet tea served by Doreen & John. Then the 6pm service. Doreen Hogan from Oswaldtwistle was the guest organist until Peter Wray took over as the resident organist in 1988.

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Peter Wray the organist.

Tom and brother David Young, friends of Stanhill from Holy Trinity Church were the soloists for the afternoon and evening services, taking it turn each year to sing. In about 1992 unforeseen circumstances with the family at the Stanhill Hall meant we could no longer meet in the grounds. Not fazed by this, we had closure in the James Hargreaves Memorial Gardens, a more fitting place for an outside witness of our Christian Faith. Sadly in 1994, Charles Hyatt, retired, having been the conductor since 1957. Most of the ageing musicians decided to take this opportunity of packing away their instruments too. An end of an era, but what memories.

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For a few more years we walked in the morning straight to the Gardens from chapel for outside Worship. Peter played the keyboard for the hymns.

Morning Sermons after the orchestra retired. The photo shows the small square building where James Hargreaves lived in the 1760's

From 2010 it was decided to have a 2:30pm and 6pm Service with a tea made by the stewards in between the service. And tea & biscuits after the 6pm service. An opportunity for everyone to ‘catch up’ with each others news. Some had travelled from far away, all having their roots at the chapel. In 2020/21 - Covid struck the world! When restrictions eased, it was decided to just have a 2:30pm Service, with tea and biscuits after. Although different, there was still that ‘buzz’ of Sermons’ Day. Going back to some sort of chronological order! During the early 2000’s there were Toy services, First Step Services, Pram Services and Christingle services.

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On the 15th December 2001 we heard the sad news that Mary Grimshaw had passed away. Mary was a loyal member of the church and for 96 years attended the chapel from being a baby. She devoted her life to everything the church had to offer. Mary never married, she lived a frugal life and lived in the past - no fridge, washing machine, television, telephone. But she managed and was happy and content. Kind, quiet Mary is fondly remembered. More sad news followed on 19th January 2002 when Fred McMyn passed away. Mc, as he was fondly known, first came to Stanhill when he married May Bury in 1938 at the church. He soon got involved in chapel life and was a good support to May with everything she did for the church. Mc became church treasurer in 1960 taking over from his father-in-law, Abel Bury. Mc enjoyed the job until the mid 1980’s. He was also the circuit NCH treasurer (National Children’s Home) Mc was lost when his beloved May passed away in 1986. He rallied round and tried to cope the best he could. Mc was a true ‘gentleman’ and a friend to all. Sadly missed. In the May of the same year we mourned the loss of Marjorie Plummer , a relatively ‘new comer’ to Stanhill. She settled in well and soon made friends with the people of Stanhill. In August 2002 – A Marriage Celebration Service. All who were married here at the Stanhill Methodist Church were invited to a BBQ in the church garden prior to the celebration service when there was an opportunity to renew wedding vows. A special heart shaped cake was made by Doreen. Tea and cake enjoyed after the service and a good chat reminiscing about their wedding day! At the end of 2003 we had to say ‘Goodbye’ to Hilda and Fred Silcock, who moved to Tilehurst near Reading to live with their son, Mark and family. An emotional decision for them, but the right one at the right time. We have mentioned these stalwarts, as the photograph at the start of this ‘section’ shows them all happy together – now all reunited in Heaven.

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Hilda and Fred returned many times especially for the Sermons. Always a blessing to see them.

In September 2005 the circuit welcomed the Rev. Garo Kilagi and his family from Papua New Guinea. What a culture shock for them ! However they eventually settled into their new environment and Garo became minister for West End, Antley and Stanhill. At the end of 2005 we welcomed Hilda and Bryan Lamb to our church family here at Stanhill. They moved back to Lancashire to retire. ‘Retire ! ‘ they soon got involved in church life. And what a blessing to have them here at Stanhill.

By 2006 Stanhill hosted Fairtrade Breakfasts every March during Faitrade Fortnight. People from other churches came to have breakfast before going to their own churches for worship. Stanhill became a Fairtrade Church pledging to serve only Fairtrade coffee and tea at church events.

The FAIRTRADE Certificate when we became a Fairtrade church

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More devastating news, on October 20th 2006 Edna Banyard passed away. Unbelievable news. What would we do without our dear Edna.? A real blow for the church. Edna was such a hard worker for the church - she lived for Stanhill. Edna was the mainstay of us all. She touched hundreds of lives if not thousands - her Christian Faith shone through her – it was infectious. She was loyal, a very good listener and you knew whatever problem you shared with Edna, it would go no further. She was such a gifted lady, sewing, dancing just to name two of her talents. A wonderful human being who was everybody’s friend. Yet another friend left us in July 2007, sadly John Prescott passed away after a reasonably short illness. John, too was the mainstay of us all at Stanhill, with strong beliefs he willingly shared. He always said that his faith came to light again because of the influence of his father-in-law, Tom Broughton. John became treasurer and the ‘voice’ of Stanhill Methodist Church. He was passionate about the place, which he became fond of after his Presbyterian roots. A wonderful baker who fed us all in more ways than one! And of course passionate about Accrington Stanley!! His memory lives on. We move onto 2011 when we said more goodbyes – this time to Andrea & Tom Smallbone & their two children, Zac & Evie, who were both baptised at Stanhill. They emigrated to Canada, as did our good friend, Karen, who emigrated a few years before. Karen was a good help with the young people & was so much missed.

2012 was a busy year. The 175th Anniversary year.

A Community mini Flower Festival in June. Displays made by the Dancers, the Keep Fit Group, Village Residents & Fete Committee, West End Primary School & All Saints Church. Flowers and artefacts displayed of an era from 1837.

An Annual Quiz was in November. Very popular with people from other churches and the community - all competing to be the best team!

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In September the new circuit was launched. Accrington & Haslingden circuit joined with Blackburn & Darwen to form the West Pennine Moors Methodist Circuit. Circuit services continued every quarter. Also sectional services were introduced. The Hyndburn section of the circuit hosting united services. As well as bringing everyone together it helped the problem of filling the plan dates with the depleting numbers of ministers and local preachers. The first Saturday in December we started to have a Live Nativity in the James Hargreaves Memorial Gardens. Gazebo up for the stable & straw everywhere ! A real donkey and a little girl from the village was Mary. Everyone else who wanted to join in dressed as Shepherds & Kings & Angels. One year we had a real live baby for baby Jesus! When we ran out of little girls to ask – our community pastor & co minister, Charlotte Rumble and her real husband, Simon became Mary & Joseph! In 2015 the event was held in the school room because of bad weather. The donkey started to eat the hay to everyone’s amusement, even attempted to eat baby Jesus! The following day we always had the traditional Christingle Service. During 2013 conversations were being discussed about Heritage. With depleting numbers at church, wise words of encouragement came from Rev. Stephen Poxon, chair then of the North Lancashire Methodist District, ‘Don’t worry, just use with what you’ve got’. To cut the story short – the vision was born! At Stanhill we have a Victorian building, stories to tell, a village with a diverse history, where James Hargreaves lived when he invented the Spinning Jenny in 1764. The birthplace of the Industrial Textile Revolution. On the outskirts of the village lived Robert Peel the calico entrepreneur, who was the grandfather of Sir Robert Peel, Prime Minister & founder of the first formal Police Force. Stanhill Hall in the village was the home of the popular Victorian novelist William Bury Westall. Yes Heritage to share for future generations. Richard Hooper, the secretary of the Stanhill Village Residents Association, was asked if the residents would work with the chapel towards a Heritage

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Project, the residents focusing on the village heritage and the chapel working on Methodist heritage and the Christian aspect of the project. All agreed and Richard was the driving force of the project. Meetings and actions took place. In the meantime life went on in the church. 2013 September 13th/15th A Hobbies Exhibition. Entries from the community as well as members from the church. Displays of Photography, Crafts, Reading, Model Making, Allotment to name but a few. October 12th of the same year a one day Scarecrow Festival was held. Entries from the community and other churches. Another day to remember. During 2013 ‘Brew Day for the Community’ started. Morning Coffee and in the afternoon table games and a good ‘camp’ !! The mornings were not well attended so after a period time it was decided to have a 2pm session only. Speakers & entertainers were invited. Numbers built up of ladies and men. In 2015 The Stanhill Village Heritage Project was established to celebrate the incredible historic significance of this small village. There is a heritage trail, website and a replica of the first Spinning Jenny. A rich programme of workshops, talks and demonstrations took place at the Stanhill Methodist Church. Groups who visited have come from near and far. The Trefoil Guilds from Oswaldtwistle, Whalley and Rossendale. Mothers and Others and the Men’s Regnal from Cambridge St. Friends from the Bacup Methodist Church. Carers Link from Accrington. The children from West End Primary School, just to name but a few. Heritage Services were held once or twice a year as well as Heritage week ends. Many different displays have been of Methodism from John Wesley to the present day. The POW camp at Knuzden, where the Rev. Joseph Howe, minister of the Oswaldtwistle Methodist Churches including Stanhill, was the Padre. 2017 was the dedication of the new kitchen. So modern and practical. A great entertainment space with cafe type tables and chairs. Sometimes known as the ‘hospitality suite’ !!

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2018 was the start of a new fellowship group called B.A.S.I.C. (Brothers And Sisters In Christ) The church hosted a Polish evening. The children from the Polish School in Accrington came and entertained with their traditional dancing. The mums brought some delicious Polish food for everyone to taste. Another evening to remember. 2020/21 COVID hit the world!! Worship via Zoom – a different experience for everyone! Restrictions gradually lifted but nothing seemed the same. 2022 September 3rd at Antley a Welcome Service for the Rev. Matt Smith. 2023 was a special year when in September, Stanhill hosted the Stanhill Take a Bow heritage weekend. On the Saturday there was a performance by professional musicians, David Aspin, playing the viola and Alex Stemp playing the restored 130 year old violin played at the Stanhill Sermons by Leonard Briggs. A very poignant afternoon embraced by everyone.

COMMEMORATIVE PROGRAMME

STANHILL TAKE A BOW Heritage Festival

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STANHILL METHODIST CHURCH

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e violin which features in today's recital is a copy of Antonius Stradivarius and was made in Germany over 130 years ago, possibly by Alfred Moritz in Dresden. It was played at the Stanhill Methodist Sermons at least as far back as 1910. Now fully restored by private donation, the instrument will be loaned out annually by the church to young people who wish to embark on a music career but lack a suitable instrument to play on. e applicants will be chosen via a competitive process in partnership with Lancashire Schools Music Service. A photo here shows Leonard Briggs playing the violin during a Sermons Procession. Mrs Charlotte Rumble LAY PASTOR T h

Rev. Matt Smith PRESBYTER

Design & print donated by: which is featured in photos of the Stanhill Methodist Sermons as far back as 1910, will now be loaned out annually by the church to a young person who wishes to embark on a music career but lacks a suitable instrument to play on. T h e applicant will be chosen via a competitive process in partnership with Lancashire Schools Music Service. T h e scheme will be launched at today’s recital, where the restored violin will be played for the f i rst time in public by two top Lancashire professional musicians. T h e recital will include performances by the well-known Red Rose Singers and insights into the history of the Chapel and the signi f i cance of the Stanhill Sermons which once attracted hundreds of people to Stanhill, supported by a large and accomplished orchestra that played in the village. T h e violin will be played by Alex Stemp who performs regularly with the Hallé and Royal Northern Sinfonia, the Northern Chamber Orchestra and other orchestras in the North West. She has given many solo and chamber recitals all over the UK and has recorded backing tracks over many years for tv and radio. David Aspin is Principal Viola of the Orchestra of Opera North and is a regular guest principal with many of the UK's top orchestras. He has toured internationally with chamber groups and recorded for CD and radio. A 130+ year old violin found rotting in Stanhill Chapel in Oswaldtwistle, has now been restored to performance standard with the help of a private donation. T h e violin,

RECITAL 16th SEPTEMBER 2023

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Stanhill Methodist Church is one of the oldest working former United Methodist Free churches in the region.

Stanhill Methodist Church, Nab Lane, Stanhill Village, Oswaldtwistle BB5 4PT Facebook - Stanhill Methodist Church Website - https://www.wpmmethodist.org.uk/stanhill.htm

Photo by Karen Nash Photography

Stanhill Take A Bow Heritage Weekend’ September 2023

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2023 The Annual Quiz moved venue to the Stanhill Social Club – more room for the increased numbers. Reaching out to the community ! 2024 The circuit introduced various forms of Worship to experience. Cafe Church, Messy Church, Songs of Praise, Holy Communion, Traditional. The feedback was mixed! June 24th Some of us from the circuit went to Harrogate for Rev. Matt’s We can not finish 188yrs of the Stanhill Methodist Church without mentioning, Margaret Taylor, Communion Steward, and her brother David Berry. Margaret has been our ‘Poet Laureate’ for many years. Margaret has entertained us at Brew Days with her stories and poems. She has also read her specially written poems at special services. A talented lady indeed. Margaret’s son, Robert, and her brother, David have both helped maintain the church building. David a hard worker, always tidying and sweeping outside. David held garage sales at his home, raising money for church and charities. Together with his wife, Christine, they have always been willing to help out. Nothing too much trouble for David, and always there when needed. Hilda and Bryan Lamb too, have contributed so much to church since their arrival in 2005. Hilda a steward, the flower arranger, her creative talent has shone through with Easter, Harvest and Christmas displays. Her baking for Brew Days and on other occasions has been very much appreciated. Not to mention being the musician! Since Peter moved away in 2012, Hilda has played the CD recordings for the hymns – which was quite stressful at times when the equipment didn’t work! Bryan is a local preacher, so not always with us on a Sunday. After returning to Lancashire, he soon got himself involved in Circuit business and wore many ‘hats’. Bryan leads the circuit Bible Study. His knowledge of the Bible and everything else for that matter is quite remarkable. Ordination service. A joyous occasion !

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Kate Prescott has been the church council secretary for just over ten years. Her knowledge of the running of the Methodist Church has been invaluable, keeping us on the right track. Kate’s ‘day job’ is the circuit administrator. Kate and her brother Karl have both been a good support over the years to their parents John and Doreen. All hard workers and committed to the Stanhill Methodist Church.

So much more to say – but impossible to cover everything and everyone.

This brings us to 2025. The beginning of January came the devastating news that our dear friend, Doreen Prescott had passed away. Although Doreen had been ill, it was still news that shocked everyone. Doreen was the beating heart of the Stanhill Methodist Church. She loved her church and was proud of her roots. The Sermons to Doreen was the best day in the chapel’s calendar, she absolutely ‘soaked’ up the day. Doreen was an extremely hard worker, not to mention a wonderful confectioner – her baking was second to none, so very delicious. Doreen was the NCH secretary (now named Action for Children). The last number of years, Doreen, reluctantly became the church treasurer, as no one else offered to do it. She was well supported by Hilda and Bryan. Doreen was also a steward. Doreen quietly got on with things, she didn’t like the limelight. Doreen was so proud of her family and loved them to bits! Always on hand to make their birthday cakes and more besides.! Doreen loved doing jigsaws & puzzles and an avid reader. Her knowledge of the Bible was impressive. Doreen was a good loyal friend to us all - what laughs we had over the years!!

We miss Doreen so much. We give thanks for her precious life well lived. Thanks be to God.

Life at the church carried on - Brew Days, BASIC fellowship group, Why Don’t You ? A new group started by Kate and Charlotte - an afternoon and an evening group once a month doing crafts, playing board games having tea and cake and generally having a good get together. During the years there has also been a Mr & Mrs Quiz, Passover Meals,

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