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March 2021 March 2021

be able to get to know them better and work with them for longer. The Diocese is and immersive sound effects in this unique approach to socially distanced
glad to have them with us and we pray the relationship will deepen and be a theatre.
blessing to us all.
Writer/performer Sophia of Stute Theatre said: “It’s a privilege to perform such a
“When we came to Salisbury in 2011, Helen had just retired as a Maths teacher. relevant play and highlight the often hidden stories of care and the wonderful
She has supported me particularly through hospitality and fundraising in The South contribution care workers make to society.”
Canonry and in the beautiful garden, notably running the Sudan fete. She has
maintained her Quaker membership at Salisbury Quaker Meeting throughout our There are just 30 telephone performances slots available for You Don’t Know Me
time here. She established a weekly origami workshop for prisoners at HMP But, between 3pm and 7pm on the 15, 16, 27, 27 and 28 March. Booking is
Erlestoke selling their cards to raise funds for prisoner rehabilitation. Helen has essential and this play is suitable for ages 16+. Find out more and secure one of
been a major part of what I have been able to do and I am grateful for her and these limited tickets by visiting the Artsreach website www.artsreach.co.uk or by
our family’s support. We look forward to retiring to Brighton to be closer to our calling 01305 269512.
children and grandchildren.” “Beautifully presented. The atmosphere of theatre, with a lovely individual
experience” Audience Member, July 2020
Senior Diocesan leaders praise Bishop Nicholas' contribution
as he announces his retirement

Bishops Karen and Andrew, and our Diocesan Secretary, have praised the
contribution of Bishop Nicholas to the life and vision of the Diocese as he
announced his retirement as Bishop of Salisbury. REMINISCENCES FROM BRIANTSPUDDLE.
Bishop Karen, who will be the acting Bishop of Salisbury during the vacancy,
spoke on behalf of the Diocese, saying: In August 2014 a very successful exhibition
“Bishop Nicholas has brought a rich and wise attentiveness to the Diocese of was held in Briantspuddle Village Hall to
th
Salisbury over the last 10 years for which we are extremely grateful. His vision to celebrate the 100 anniversary of the
renew hope has led to a sharing of his interests in the environment, inclusion, and founding of the Bladen Estate by Ernest
Debenham. Following this many
the arts with us all.
memories from various families who lived
“Nick is held in high regard across the Church of England and his national roles and had lived in the village surfaced.
have informed us locally. His thoughtful faith continues to inspire people across Several of these were about the Toms
Wiltshire, Dorset and beyond and his deep commitment to us all and the local family who had lived in and had
church has enabled the Diocese to remain resilient in spirit during challenging connections to the village for several
times. generations.
“Helen has had her own ministry which has also been much appreciated with One, from a cutting from a local
many enjoying her warm hospitality, care, origami and baking. We are pleased to newspaper dated 1937 describes the
have them with us for a little while longer and shall miss both of them very much, resentment felt by Mr John Toms, the
wishing them a very happy retirement in July.” local clockmaker, when he was refused
the renewal of his insurance for his
Bishop Andrew said:
motorbike, owing to the fact that he was
"Bishop Nicholas has led the Diocese of Salisbury with wisdom and unstinting 84 years old. He appealed to the
devotion. The news of his forthcoming retirement will be greeted with sadness yet Department of Transport stating that he
also much gratitude - for his deep confidence in the local church and the was perfectly fit and well, but to no avail.
Godliness and generosity of his vision. He and Helen will be greatly missed. He was in fact England’s oldest
motorcyclist at the time! Previously,

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