40th Anniversary Celebrations

40th Anniversary Celebrations

During 2009, The Churches Conservation Trust celebrated 40 years of saving historic churches at risk. It was a time for us to thank those who have contributed to our achievements since our inauguration in 1969 – our donors, volunteers, architects, contractors, craftspeople and staff.  They have all helped us to put churches back into the heart of the community.

Highlighting our work

Our birthday celebration helped to highlight the unique importance of the 340 historic churches cared for by the Trust and encourage people to visit, appreciate and enjoy the unique experiences these churches can provide.

Anniversary prints and mug

To celebrate our 40th Anniversary, the acclaimed artist Gerard Stamp painted a series of twelve watercolours of Trust churches, and the prestigious designers Emma Bridgewater and Matthew Rice created a unique commemorative mug.

Limited edition prints of the watercolours are now available to buy at a specially discounted price. 

Mugs are available to purchase from the Emma Bridgewater website.

Anniversary events

There were many national and local events during our Anniversary year, including a national bell ringing event at Trust churches in February, a special Service of Thanksgiving at Westminster Abbey in September, and our Birthday Song weekend in October.

Thank you to all those who visited, took part, volunteered, promoted, donated and suppported us during our Anniversary year! We are hoping that the next 40 will be even better.