Princess Alexandra attends St. Mary's service

Sees Bishop rededicate new Convent and Nursing Home

The buildings of St Mary's Convent and Nursing Home, "restored, modernised and extended", were rededicated in God's service by Bishop Edward Holland in the presence of patron HRH Princess Alexandra.

The Princess, seen pictured right, afterwards spent an hour touring the convent, and talking to the Sisters, the Trustees, the staff and the residents. She also spoke to the invited visitors: representatives of the funders, the fundraising team, and local clergy. A Celebration Concert of chamber music in the chapel completed the occasion.

The refurbishment of the convent buildings was funded by the £1.7m Appeal, which was generously supported by a number of private donors and charitable trusts, and by the fundraising efforts of numerous local people.

It was a great day for St Mary's and for Sister Jennifer (picture right), being the culmination of three years of hard work, raising and spending the funds, and bringing the nursing home into line with the latest care standards. The convent is now a very well equipped as well as a very happy place for those who live there.

Nick Floyer
www.StMarysCNH.org.uk

June 9, 2003