A TRADITIONAL choral evensong mounted by The Friends of St Peter’s Lynchmere was packed to overflowing.

Friends joint chairman Michael Tibbs gave a talk on the history and architecture of St Peter’s Church and its long-standing connection with Shulbrede Priory, followed by the choir singing Hymns and Nunc Dimittis by Sir Hubert Parry, whose daughter lived at the priory. The choir was directed by choir mistress Sandra Belcher and accompanied by organist Robert Gilman.

Mr Tibbs said: “Funds raised at this event will go further towards the ongoing upkeep of this beautiful church, and The Friends of St Peter’s are very grateful for the generosity of all who give to maintain the church.

The sermon was preached by The Rev Nick Haigh, who will be licensed in October to take over St Peter’s – and St Paul’s in Camelsdale – in a united benefice with St Margaret’s at Fernhurst.

Mr Tibbs added: “Rev Haigh stressed we should all be generous to each other, and be the one still point in a changing world, when the loving of each other just got harder.

“The church stands for unity and reconciliation and he hoped that we would all walk together in uniting the three churches.”

Congregation members enjoyed a barbecue afterwards in the churchyard, with a treasure hunt and games for the children.