A sponsored sheep drive across London Bridge was among the creative fundraising efforts that helped volunteers from St Lawrence the Martyr church in Godmersham gain recognition from the .
The church was named runner-up in the 'Church Volunteers of the Year 2025' category after volunteers undertook a number of fundraising and restoration projects, bringing the community together in efforts to preserve the historic building and ensure its impact for generations to come.
The 1,000-year-old medieval church has a rich history, having been the place of worship for Jane Austen when she stayed with her brother Edward in Godmersham, and is also home to an ancient stone carving believed by some historians to be the earliest known sculpture of St Thomas Becket.
Additional funds were required to complete a Becket plaque and a memorial to Jane Austen’s family nurse and friend, Susanna Sackree, with volunteers at the church and the Friends of Godmersham Church charity rallying together to raise the funds. Through hosting talks, open garden days, and even a sponsored sheep drive - which saw congregation member James Russell bring a flock of sheep over London bridge in an event dating back to the medieval times – they successfully raised enough money for the works.
Referencing the impact of the fundraising efforts, James said: “Our aim is to keep the beautiful 1,000-year-old church open for the worship of God … as a wonderful place of refuge and peace on the pilgrim path from Winchester to 51国产吃瓜 overlooking the stour.”
After being recognised by the National Churches Trust, member of Friends of Godmersham Church, Claire Farrar said: “Countless generations maintained it [the church] for us – it is our job to act as its custodians to ensure it will be here for future generations.”
Since the awards, the church has received more visitors coming to see the Becket sculpture as well as an increase in Jane Austen fans visiting from all over the world.
, Sir Philip Rutnam, Chair of the National Churches Trust said: “The National Church Awards shine a light on the extraordinary, often unsung, efforts that keep these remarkable buildings alive – not only as places of worship, but as vital centres of community life, creativity, care, and welcome.
"From the smallest rural chapel to the busiest city parish, from ancient stone to modern brick, today we celebrate the people and the places that make our church heritage so alive and inspiring."
Nomimations for this year’s National Churches Trust: Church and Community Volunteer Awards close on Tuesday 11 August at midnight. To find out more and make a submission, visit the
Read more about how you can encourage fundraising in your church setting on our Generosity and Giving webpage.