In bygone years the term Spend a Penny was usually associated with a visit to the toilet! This was mainly due to the fact public toilets in England had coin operated locks, which cost one penny to open. Public toilets made a charge of one penny per visit, especially for the ladies, and so the phrase “Spend a Penny” became prevalent in the English language.
As old age approaches and arrives in a lot of cases (if we live long enough), more and more of the older generation’s habits change, meaning extra visits to the toilet become the norm, especially in colder weather. The local church in Sutton cum Lound has been aware of this situation for a great number of years, but were unable to proceed with any alterations for a variety of reasons, including, rules and regulations relating to listed buildings, planning consents, faculties required from the diocese, and finances of course, to name but a few.
To bring the church into the 21st century, another attempt is taking place to provide or install toilet facilities for the use of worshippers at Saint Bartholomew’s Church. The term Spend a Penny is long gone out of fashion and now reads spend some thousands, as that is the cost of installing modern facilities in older type buildings. A campaign is underway to help finance these changes, which will be a very large project, and the exploration of the possibilities of grants or funding for such an event is also being undertaken!
The Parochial Church Council, under the leadership of Reverend Cora Yarrien, have decided to embark on a church building project to install a toilet and kitchen at St Bartholomew’s Church in Sutton cum Lound. The toilet and kitchen are essential facilities for any public and community building. The church needs to raise approx £50,000 to see the project become a reality and is looking for support whether it be financial, fundraising or project support to help reach the total and achieve the installation. It is hoped that in the future St Bartholomew’s will be able to compliment further the already great community assets in the parish, namely the village halls and the pubs.
As a Grade 1 listed building, residents in the village want to ensure that the church remains open and is here for years to come to help support the community needs of all those that live in Sutton cum Lound, Lound and Barnby Moor as well as visitors to the area. They are keen to hear from anyone who thinks they may be able to help in any way. No deposits are required and donations will be accepted at your convenience. To help please contact the PCC Secretary Mrs Janet Webb on 01777 818682 or the Reverend Cora Yarrien on 01777 838776 or email sutton-church@outlook.com.