A church near Hitchin has released a calendar in a bid to boost its restoration fund after the coronavirus crisis caused a shortfall in its drive to raise £100k.

All Saints' Church in Willian launched sales of its 2021 calendar this month, with every penny directed towards improvements after the pandemic halted fundraising projects.

The church which dates back to Norman times is in dire need of running water, disabled facilities and a kitchen so it can host community events.

With Covid resulting in the cancellation of the popular Willian Village Fair, which had been a reliable way to bring in much-needed funds, the church had to be creative – and came up with the calendar.

Associate Vicar of All Saints' Church, Reverend Amanda Ferris said: "We want the church to be a hub for the whole community to be able to use it as a place of rest, healing and restoration, and to absorb the prayer and lovely feeling of peace, that maybe we don't always get in our busy lives.

"As well as the practicalities of adding a toilet and kitchenette, the reordering of All Saints' will also allow it to be used as a flexible space - the church's acoustics are wonderful and over the years we have hosted several concerts – including one by members of the Welsh National Opera last year.

"As well as continuing to host concerts, we are hoping to put on art exhibitions and for the church to be a resource for people to come and be in, so that it's not just open for services, but is open all the time.

"The mission for the church is to be there for people and to outreach into the community."

The mixture of old and new photographs in the calendar shows how the church has been used for prayer and worship for more than 800 years."

The interesting images also serve as a record of how the church is today, before the reordering and restoration take place – while serving as a warm reminder for those members of the congregation who aren't able to attend.

The calendar is available to buy in person for £5, from All Saints' Church, Lordship Food Market and St Paul's Church in Letchworth, Willian Village Post Office and The Three Horseshoes and The Fox at Willian.

Shires Funeral Directors and Heckford Norton Solicitors will be funding the printing of this calendar. It is also available to buy through the post, at a cost of £6.50. Email [email protected].

January's beautiful snowy picture is set to be printed as greetings/Christmas cards by Co-operative Funeral Care in Hitchin and Letchworth – with all at the church appreciating their support. Read Nub News for more on this soon.

The restoration fund has also received a donation from Neville Funeral Directors.