We were honoured by The presence of our own Bishop of Dorchester, Rt. Rev. Anthony Russell, To rededicate the church after its extensive repairs and decorations. This Took place at the start of a service of Communion on 21st September at which we also commemorated 30 years since the ordination of Timothy Wimbush.

A large congregation was present to hear the Bishop preach, gathered not only from the villages but from the wider Benefice and with representatives from the other local churches. There were also present representatives from our architects and others involved with the building works and Michael and Rachel Kinchin Smith, formerly of Epwell, represented the Oxford Historic Churches Fund, generous donors of £5,000.

The church was beautifully decorated with magnificent flower arrangements and the new decorative colours were universally admired; for these we are grateful to Erica Wimbush and Pat Bates who undertook the dangerous task of choosing colours.

The organ, newly renovated and re-erected in a position in the North Transept was played by Peter Hardman and a large choir composed of members of the Broughton as well as the old Benefice choir based on Sibford processed to their places in the choir stalls.

There was a reception after the service in the Village Hall which most of the congregation attended.

The evening was a worthy conclusion to the works carried out on the church, for which the whole community of the villages takes a major share of the achievement.

It is hoped that there will be a “Sibford Antiques Roadshow” occasion on Saturday 30th October 1999 in the Village Hall from 10.30 a.m. to 4.30 p.m. Final arrangements are yet to be made for this and there will be a circulation of more details, also an announcement in the Banbury Guardian nearer the time. Most people will be familiar with the arrangements from the popular television programme. This will not be a television production but Mr Mark Ashley BA (Hons) PG (Dip) an independent antiques valuer will be available to give a verbal description and valuation of your possessions. There will be a limit of four items per person at a charge of £l per item. there will be an entrance fee and it is hoped that teas and other refreshments will be on sale. All proceeds to the Church Repairs Appeal.