Patronal Festival Report - St Peter ad Vincula

St Peter ad Vincula, Folkington, East Sussex
Patron saint: St Peter
Festival date: 29 June 2025

St Peter ad Vincula celebrated its revived Patronal Festival for the second year running, an occasion that has quickly become an important point of connection in a small village with few remaining communal spaces. The afternoon fête drew visitors from across the county, offering a tombola, plant market and book sale, supported by excellent local refreshments. Strong volunteer involvement ensured everything ran smoothly.

Choral Evensong at 5pm, led by the Bishop of Lewes, was the highlight of the day. A professional quartet, under Nathaniel Best with organist Timothy Berrett, provided music of exceptional quality that deeply moved the congregation. Worshippers from across the Cuckmere Benefice and beyond attended, filling the church.

The event raised more than £1,000 towards essential exterior repairs, and the festival again proved its value in strengthening community life and sustaining the church’s future.