Day of festive events at St Thomas’ Church and Heritage Centre

A day of festive wreath making, music and poetry will take place at St Thomas’ Church and Heritage Centre in Ryde on Saturday 5th December 2009.

Planned to coincide with the town’s Festive Fun Day which includes a lantern parade and fireworks display, the Isle of Wight Council owned building is opening its doors for free between 10am and 4.30pm.

The day of activities is being co-ordinated by Mrs Carol Jaye of the Ryde Arts Festival. Stylist Tanya Goodwin will be running a festive garland a wreath making session while local musicians perform throughout the day. Organist Andrew Pellow, Medina Choral Choir, the Rainbow Wight Singers, Arthur Dunford String Quartet and the Loft Poets will all give festive performances in the historic building.

Ryde High School Parent and Teacher Association will be selling mulled wine and mince pies, tea and coffee will also be available.

The day, which is supported by Ryde Town Council and Ryde Business Association involves the whole community. The Carnival Learning Centre and council Family Learning Team have been working with local schools and their families to create unique lanterns for the evening parade and hundreds of people are expected to line the streets to watch the parade.

The historic building was taken on by the Isle of Wight Council in 2004, having been restored by leading local townspeople using grants from Heritage Lottery Funding. It is available for hire by community groups as a meeting place or events venue. Anyone interested in finding out more about the venue and its availability should contact the Heritage Centre via its email address: st.thomas@iow.gov.uk, or by calling 01983 823804.

Cllr Arthur Taylor, Chairman of the Isle of Wight Council and local ward member said:

“It is wonderful to see St Thomas’ Heritage Centre being used by the local community. I hope people will take the opportunity to visit the heritage centre and get into the festive spirit by having a mince pie and while listening to local musicians.”