Church snowdrop teas weekends raise £6,500

A TOTAL of £6,500 was raised by the 21st annual snowdrop teas at St Botolph’s Church in Swyncombe.

More than 1,000 people visited the church over three weekends last month to see the carpet of white flowers in the graveyard and enjoy tea and cakes.

Volunteer John Sennett, of Pyrton Lane, Watlington, said: “Contributors and very willing helpers from the surrounding church parish of Cookley Green, Park Corner, Russell’s Water, Maidensgrove, Christmas Common and Greenfield descended with cakes, books, gifts and preserves in abundance to serve many visitors from around the area with the teas and cakes for which St Botolph’s has become renowned during February.

“Over the three weekends more than 1,000 cups of tea and cake were served — almost 100 an hour — in a huge effort to raise funds for this delightful old church and its continued existence as a place of prayer and meditation away from the bustle of our ever busier lives. For a church between rectors, this church has proven the staying power of its congregation in such a difficult time.”

The proceeds will go towards a washroom, the church’s running costs and a number of charities.