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rvv*iiti It IlllLH fML¥ tyl THE FRIÈNDS OE4EVERLEY MINSTER 87th ANNUAL REPORT 2022 - 2023

Chair’s Report

Programme Secretary’s Report October Weekend Programme Vicar’s Report Membership Secretary’s Report Report by the Director of Music Report by the Minster Surveyor John Phillips St John’s tombstone Aspects of Pilgrimage at Beverley Minster Auction of Surplus Goods and Materials Ave atque Vale Annual Accounts Financial Review Annual General Meeting Agenda 2023 AGM Minutes 2022

Members of the Council

Mary Mead	3
Pamela Martin	5
	7
Jonathan Baker	9
Liz Grove	11
Robert Poyser	13
Simon Delaney	15
Roger Lewis	18
John Phillips	21
Jonathan Baker	25
Martin Needler	31
John Phillips	33
James Moore	35
James Moore	37
	38
	39
	47

Chair’s Report

In last year’s annual report, Roger Lewis identified a number of characteristics that a healthy charitable organisation should display, including: a relevant purpose; sufficient members; effective processes

and sufficient resources to carry out the organisation’s aims. Reflecting on these in the context of the Friends gives us grounds for continued optimism but, as was highlighted then, challenges remain if we are to flourish in future. We have been giving some attention to our operating procedures and work remains to be done both in this area and in our wish to attract new and actively involved members. We very much welcome ideas and assistance from members for increasing membership and participation in our organisation.

Many Friends will be aware that our honorary secretary, John Phillips, has decided to stand down at the forthcoming AGM after sixteen years of committed service to the Friends Council. We are hugely grateful to John for this contribution and also for his other roles, especially his groundbreaking work as the Minster historian. You will read elsewhere in this report Roger Lewis’s reflections on his time working alongside John. We will be marking John’s retirement with a study day and reception on 3 November, details of which are included in Programme Secretary Pamela Martin’s report, and I hope that as many of you as possible will join us for that event. In addition, three other council members, Helena

Anderson, Gail Cahill and Stephen Deas will reach the end of their elected term at the AGM and I would like to thank them for their work and hope that they will continue to be active members of the Friends in future.

Due in part to the event planned to mark John’s retirement, the October weekend (6-8 October) will have a slightly different format than usual and will include a visit to Bridlington Priory on Friday, with the AGM followed by the St John of Beverley lecture taking place on Saturday. This will be given by John on the topic of social history as recorded in the fabric of the Minster. Finally, there will be the traditional choral evensong on the Sunday afternoon. As many of you will know, choral evensong, a unique part of our cultural heritage, has become increasingly popular nationally in recent years and is considered by many to provide an important moment for reflection in increasingly busy lives. I would encourage you to take this opportunity to come along if you are able to.

It has been heartening to see the Minster choirs continue to thrive, with both regular services and one or two new events, such as the very lively performance of ‘Jonah Man Jazz’ in March which combined the Junior Choir with members of the Girls’ and Boys’ Choirs to great effect. Many of you will be aware that the Friends have provided significant financial support to the choir over the years, for example funding the choral foundation which provides music tuition to choristers. In doing this we aim not only to support an important activity but also to provide a platform for growth and to facilitate the obtaining of grants from other organisations. It is therefore highly

encouraging to hear that the DEFLOG Foundation has now become a major supporter of this extremely worthwhile scheme.

It was good to see that the Coronation community event held in May was so well attended and conversations with visitors to the Friends’ stall suggested that both frequent and less frequent visitors to the Minster were taking the opportunity to enjoy the music and other activities laid on that day.

In recent months we have received two requests for funding, both in connection with the bells and clock. The first was the repair to the clock mechanism carried out at the end of last year, restoring the quarter chimes. The Council was also pleased to support the application to fund vital repairs to Great John’s strike hammer and enhancement work to the clappers on other bells, which will restore the peal to that originally intended and help to guard against the possibility of future problems.

I am pleased to report that the PCC has recently approved the establishment of a

Capital Works Board. This board, which includes representatives of the PCC, Old Fund, 2COT and the Friends, will oversee the selection of capital projects that have been identified as necessary to the Minster and the other buildings within the remit of the PCC. As you will see from the Treasurer’s report, the Friends are in a strong position to support those projects that meet the objectives of our organisation.

Those of you that have visited the Minster recently may have seen that we have updated our banner and leaflets. Work is also underway to update our systems, including the introduction of an online booking system for those able to use this method, changes to our webpages, and an increased social media presence, via our Facebook page and newly launched Instagram account. I would like to thank all those who have helped with this and would welcome any feedback or suggestions on what we have done so far. We will also be looking at our events programme and would welcome input from members who have ideas for things that they would like us to do in future.

Programme Secretary’s Report

First of all, I would like to thank all those members who have supported events over the last year. After a flourish in numbers in the aftermath of Covid, the last year’s attendances have been lower. There are a number of reasons for this decline, not least due to the loss of several stalwart supporters over the years, but all quite legitimate.

Following on from my Spring Newsletter report, I am pleased to say that the ‘Evenings in June’ series generated a good response from Friends members and also from Minster congregation members and those from outside of the church. Fifteen people attended the visit to St Mary’s Lowgate Parish Church in Hull and along with a guided tour, were able to see the new facilities which have been created as a result of a successful funding bid…and also witness the conservation and restoration which has taken place. The second talk/tour was delivered by Sally George, a Minster church member and Church Guide. Twelve people attended the event which explored Sally’s ‘Favourite Corners of the Minster’ – a very personal and interesting delivery, which highlighted well known features in the Minster as well as some hidden and quirky points of interest. Finally, Mike Robson, Captain of the Tower and Keeper of the Steeple at the Minster, led a tour of ‘Minstrel Carvings in the Minster’, during which he highlighted the rich array of musical characters and their medieval instruments in his own amusing and informative way. Twenty three enthusiasts joined Mike on this occasion.

The coach tour to Lastingham, St Mary’s Parish Church and Pickering, St Peter & St Paul’s Parish Church is days away, as I write.

Nineteen bookings have been taken to date and we are hoping for a dry and sunny day. Dr Stuart Harrison and Dr Kate Giles are our respective guides, who are experts in their fields. Lastingham Church is famous for its links with early Christianity and was founded as a Celtic Monastery in 654AD by St Cedd. The present church was built between 1078 and 1088 and its Crypt is a unique feature. The interior of Pickering Church is decorated with Medieval Paintings - the focus of our visit on this occasion.

The October Weekend has taken a slightly different format this year in order to accommodate the AGM and St John Lecture in the Parish Hall and Peter Harrison Room. On Friday 6[th] October 2023, a visit to the old part of Bridlington is planned with a tour of Bridlington Priory led by Dr Stuart Harrison in the morning and a guided tour of the old town arranged for the afternoon. A visit to the Bayle Museum will come after the Priory tour and before a buffet lunch taken at the Lamp Restaurant. As mentioned above, the AGM and St John Lecture will take place on Saturday 7[th] October 2023 in the afternoon. The St John Lecture speaker is our retiring Honorary Secretary John Phillips, who will deliver a presentation, ‘Beverley Scratchings - an Introduction to Social History in Beverley Minster’, discussing one aspect of his extensive research in recent years on Beverley Minster. The usual buffet tea will be served afterwards.

After much deliberation, it was decided not to go ahead with the annual dinner, which has in the past been held on the Friday evening of the weekend. In brief, the reasons for this decision have been the sharp rise in the cost of

evening dining, lower numbers attending on the last occasion (as likewise, with events) and the preference of Cerutti 2 for the event to be held other than at a weekend.

Robert Poyser will be performing the Epiphany Organ Recital in January 2024 as detailed in the programme. Attendances at this concert have gained momentum over the years providing a welcome post-Christmas/ New Year event to put in your diary.

and efficiently in this role and will be a hard act to follow. A series of three lectures is planned, all of which link to the extensive research that John has undertaken (and published) on Beverley Minster over many years. The speakers – Professor Barbara English, Dr Susan Neave and Dr Stuart Harrison are all highly acclaimed experts in their fields. Tea and biscuits will be served after the first lecture and then a buffet tea will follow the lectures and presentations.

‘New Perspectives of Beverley Minster’ is a special event we are holding to celebrate the retirement of John Phillips from his 16 year Honorary role of Secretary of Friends of Beverley Minster. John has worked tirelessly

Finally, the programme for the Spring/Summer 2024 events will appear in the New Year Newsletter.

Pamela J Martin

October Weekend Programme

Friday 6 October – Sunday 8 October 2023

FRIDAY 6 OCTOBER 10.30am – 4.00pm

‘Visit to Bridlington Old Town’

Includes a Guided Tour of Bridlington Priory with Dr Stuart Harrison, a visit to the Bayle Museum, a Buffet Lunch at the Lamp Restaurant, followed by a Guided Tour of Bridlington Old Town.

Meet at the Priory entrance

Cost: £20 per person for Friends; £25 per person for non-Friends Own Transport - Street Parking is available in the area in front of the Priory. Sensible shoes recommended.

BOOKING ESSENTIAL

SATURDAY 7[th] OCTOBER at 2.00pm

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

Peter Harrison Room/Minster Parish Hall, Minster Yard North, HU17 0DT

(Members of the Friends only)

3.15pm

St John of Beverley Annual Lecture

‘Beverley Scratchings - an Introduction to Social History in Beverley Minster’ Speaker: John Phillips

An Afternoon Tea buffet will follow

Cost: Free for Friends; £6 per person for non-Friends attending the lecture and buffet

BOOKING ESSENTIAL FOR FRIENDS AND NON-FRIENDS

For further details see the Minster website.

SUNDAY 8[th] OCTOBER at 5.30pm

Festal Evensong in the Minster

FRIDAY 3[rd] November 2023 at 2.00pm

St Mary’s Parish Hall, North Bar Within, Beverley

'New perspectives on Beverley Minster'

A celebration of John Phillips’ retirement after 16 years as Honorary Secretary of the Friends of Beverley Minster, his research…and much more…

Three lectures followed by a buffet tea

‘The Minster and St Mary’s as Landlords: Church Property in Beverley’

Speaker: Dr Susan Neave

'The Medieval Roofs of Beverley Minster Reconstructed and Dated'

Speaker: Dr Stuart Harrison

‘The Magnificat stall but not of the Archbishop's yet’

Speaker: Professor Barbara English

To conclude at approx. 7.00pm

Cost: £10 for Friends; £15 for Non-Friends

BOOKING ESSENTIAL

2024

Saturday 6[th ] January 2024 at 6.00pm

EPIPHANY ORGAN RECITAL

Messiaen: La Nativité du Seigneur

Organ recital by Robert Poyser (Director of Music, Beverley Minster) Epiphany Concert and Reception followed by refreshments (sponsored by the Friends).

BOOKING ENQUIRIES TO:

The Programme Secretary, Friends of Beverley Minster, 85, Ancaster Avenue, Hull, HU5 4QR E-mail: friendsbooking@beverleyminster.org.uk Telephone 01482 442221

Vicar’s Report

In reviewing the life of Minster over last year it depends where you look – there have been many encouragements but there are also some darker corners which have been more challenging.

In general terms we have bounced back from the impact of the pandemic. Taken as a whole, numbers attending the Minster are now greater than they were before the pandemic, despite the fact that we are aware of some folk who haven’t returned – which means quite a few new people have joined us, chiefly as a result of two new congregations being started: The Crossing began as an online community for families with young children and has now successfully established itself in real space in the hall, and attracts 30-40 people every week. The 9.15 service began in January and now attracts 40-50 people, including a number of folk who are new to the Minster.

The 11am service has settled down and is attended by most of the folk who previously came to the old 10.30, usually around 100. The choir is flourishing and enjoying the extra opportunities offered by the new format. Robert Poyser has done an excellent job leading the choir with reduced resources and it has been good to see a number of new members joining this year. The Friends’ support for the Choral Foundation has been an important factor in enabling this.

These changes are the most obvious visible fruit of the new Vision Strategy launched last autumn, where parts of the vision expressed an ambition to diversify our forms of service and to welcome and support families and young children.

Other parts of the vision strategy have seen a renewal of the pastoral care team and several new pastoral initiatives. The prayer team has similarly benefitted from fresh ideas and leadership. A different working group led by Bishop David James has this month been raising awareness of our environmental responsibility and we have recently learned that we have been awarded the EcoChurch Bronze Award. The Minster is also leading a partnership with Hope into Action and Churches Together in Beverley to provide supported housing for a family at risk of homelessness.

Volunteer Guides and Welcomers continue to engage with visitors to the Minster and the feedback on Tripadvisor shows what a good experience most visitors have.

The Friends have of course been supporting the Sanctuary Project which is now drawing to an end. There has been some excellent work done by Anna Knowles and Cathy Thornton (the Learning and Engagement officers) reaching out to groups and organisations in the wider community, including schools, refugee organisations and the Cherry Tree Centre. The heritage workshops which they organised were fully booked and may be something we wish to repeat.

After all the work done on the Minster roof last year, this year’s capital works programme has been relatively quiet, and the focus of fundraising by Two Churches One Town has been on the next phase of work at St Mary’s. However, we are all grateful to the Friends for their generosity in funding work on the clock and the bells.

The joint working group from the Friends, PCC, 2COT and BMOF is working to identify which of the various capital projects on the 2COT programme of works can be undertaken next.

There are still many challenges, the most obvious of which is financial. With a new team taking over the running of the Minster’s finances it has been clear that the professional support we had been relying on over the last couple of years has not been adequate. Sorting out the tangle has been a major exercise and is not over yet.

What is emerging is that the Minster is running at a deficit and has been for years. This has so far been covered by reserves and legacies, but is not sustainable. It appears that some of the balances in restricted funds shown in the annual accounts have not been written down as money was spent, giving a misleading idea of our true position.

We aim to balance the books if possible by growing income. Part of this will be by deriving income from the car park, but that is proving to be a less straightforward procedure than had been hoped. We also need to increase the number of outside events using the Minster,

and the Enterprise Committee which oversees such events is now more focussed on that goal.

Paying for heating this winter is a further challenge. It is likely that there will be reduced heating and is you are planning on coming to any services or events my advice is to wrap up warm.

We are currently without a curate, with Tim Kelly having moved on in May. We hope to get a new curate next summer.

So while the picture is mixed there is much that is good and encouraging as we emerge from the worst effects of the pandemic and move forward. I am grateful to God for all that has been done, especially when I compare notes with other clergy, when it becomes clear that many other churches find themselves in much more challenging situations than we do. The changes we face here are replicated all around us, in the Deanery and at Diocesan levels. And I am so grateful for the hard work put in by so many people; members of staff, church officers, members of the

congregations, volunteers, and the generosity of the Friends, as well as BMOF, and 2COT.

Membership Secretary’s Report

Every year I write a report on how many Friends we have, welcoming new ones and sadly recording those who have died. This of course is an important part of my job but sometimes it seems too impersonal. This year I want to highlight various Friends alongside welcoming all and expressing gratitude and Friend-ship for their company.

The Friends Council has been undergoing changes. Last autumn our beloved Chair Roger Lewis retired. He was an almost impossible act to follow, but fortunately the wonderful Mary Mead has managed to do just that. Not only has she been a dynamic but approachable new broom but also has encouraged another young colleague, James Palmer, to join our ranks and together they are attempting to make us more efficient and attractive to a wider audience. This year one of the key Minster historians, John Phillips, is also retiring – another potential wound in our structure as he has been a brilliant Secretary for several years now. But again we hope that his successor will be equally thorough and pleasant to work with.

This brings me to the reason for my change of focus. Recently a group of us represented the Friends at the funeral of my predecessor, John Ramsdale: a lovely man. His kindness was boundless and many people still ask after him, but he will now be glad to be reunited with his wife Hazel.

So let me continue with a few more mentions, interspersed with welcomes and farewells to all, personal friends or Friends of the Minster, from far and near.

Current members: 448 (17.7.23)

New Friends

Mr K Abbott, of Beverley Ms A Baxendale-Jones, of Beverley Mrs J Bowen, of Beverley Mr N Coulson, of Welton, Carlisle Mr Dean & Ms Johnson, of Colne Mrs D Delahay, of Beverley Sarah Fletcher, of Beverley Ms K Fraser, of Beverley Miss K Hyland-Collier, of Melbourne, York Patricia Lee, of Beverley Ms M Mead & Mr Duckworth, of North Newbald Mr G Metcalfe, of Hull Mr R Miles, of Beverley Ms B Norcaro, of Ilford Mr J Palmer, of Everingham Ms G Pattison, of Beverley. Mr I Smith, of Beverley Mr Spencer, of Tickhill, Doncaster Mr & Mrs Waudby, of Beverley Mr P Wood, of Brough

Deaths

John ASHURST, of Beverley David DOUBLEDAY, of Tickhill Darrell BUTTERY, of York Geoffrey CAMPION, of Boscastle Marie CROASDALE, of Beverley John ENGLISH, Minster surveyor until 2017 Jacquie ODONI, of Lymington, Hants. Mr & Mrs N PARKINSON, of Selby Miss E PARSONS, of Clifton on Tees John RAMSDALE, Hon V-P Mavis RHODES, of Beverley Gertie RISPIN, of Beverley - aged 106½. Doreen SHAW, of Beverley Mr & Mrs SKINNER, of Cole David WEAVER, formerly of Beverley John WILMAN

Report by the Director of Music

This past year has seen much of normal life resume as part of the rebuilding process post covid. Choir numbers are healthy with a good intake of new people although we have said farewell to a number of members as they move to pastures new. Our Junior Choir, under Rachel Dent’s inspired leadership goes from strength to strength and the children love learning the interesting and often amusing songs she chooses. Last term was mostly sea based, this one, colours!

Highlights of the past year have included our first choir tour since 2019. We sang in Colchester, Chelmsford and Lincoln and stayed in Felsted School. Thank you to Mary Mead for her expertise in planning and making the tour run so smoothly. This year we visit Hexham Abbey in Northumberland and stay up near Hadrian’s Wall.

Another highlight was our sell-out concert at the Chapel of St Everilda in Everingham. A fine building and historic organ, this was a real privilege for our choir and they rose to the occasion marvellously.

As we managed with a much-reduced music department I have been indebted to the skills of Sue Wheeldon in regularly directing the choir and also our Associate Organist, Nick Wise who plays for us alongside helping a number of other churches and a full-time job! The organ has received some modernisation this past Summer with plans for a little more in the not-too-distant future. Elderly and increasingly unreliable pneumatic motors have been replaced with heavy duty solenoids which has greatly increased reliability. The organ has

coped admirably with the Minster’s freezing temperatures – testament to the work we have done on it in recent years and the excellence of the work of Wood of Huddersfield who look after our instrument.

The Music Group is thriving under the skilled leadership of Jane Todd and it was good to join forces for an exuberant and uplifting Easter Day service.

Our choral foundation continues to fund our Choristers’ music tuition and we were delighted to receive a grant from the DeFlog Foundation in the Summer as well as a substantial donation from UK railtours after their carol service in December. The Choristers Concert held in June was a tremendous event with over 20 performers entertaining a large audience. We were delighted to welcome two trustees from the DeFlog Foundation to the event who presented us with the second instalment of a grant.

Our lunchtime concert series is thriving once again and I am indebted to the kindness of our welcomers and volunteers in making audiencegoers and performers feel so much part of a community. A particular thank you to Elaine Dyson who has supplied and co-ordinated delicious soup and sandwiches that have become such a feature of our Friday lunchtime offering.

A highlight for me recently was being asked to speak at a Royal School of Church Music event at the House of Lords hosted by Lord Cormack. The music at Beverley Minster (and Peterborough Cathedral too) was chosen as an

example of good practice and social inclusion with good community links. It was good to tell the story of the music here at the Minster to an audience including various leading lights in the world of church, government, heritage, arts and culture.

As ever, the support and encouragement of the music at the Minster from the Friends of the Minster is greatly appreciated. Thank you for all you have done to assist us in growing and developing our music here at Beverley Minster.

Robert Poyser

Report by the Minster Surveyor Simon Delaney BSc (HONS) FRICS C. Build E FCABE Building Surveyor to Beverley Minster Old Fund

The Old Fund maintenance team have had a year of transition since I last reported. The main change was that after 33 years working for the Old Fund Steve Rial retired. As the plumber/glazier to the Minster Steve was responsible for all the lead maintenance whether it was glazier or roofing lead. In my time working as the fabric surveyor, Steve has refurbished numerous plain glazed windows and undertaken lead roof repairs on all the main Minster roofs. This is all besides the other day to day maintenance items he was involved in. That was in November when we gave him a good send off and an even bigger thank you.

Steve’s retirement means that currently we don’t have a lead worker on site. We are monitoring this situation and planning how we approach roof repairs in the future. When it comes to windows, Steve completed the majority of the replacement plain glazed windows highlighted as priority 1 by the York Glaziers Trust in their last window report. The team and I will be monitoring the remaining windows closely for any deterioration in their condition. With regards to planned maintenance, we are currently focusing on stone work and working through the pinnacles that need repair/replacement as highlighted by the Minster Architect (Andy Burrell).

Some of you will be aware that since retirement Steve was made an honorary freeman of Beverley by Beverley Town Council for his long services at the Minster and for his unofficial role of ambassador for Beverley when

he is out and about. Not keeping still for long he has also now published a book telling the story of his 33 years at the Minster through the many photographs he took along the way.

Steve and his wife Debra at the Freeman of Beverley Event

Building up to Steve’s retirement Dennis (Massey) moved more into Steve’s role as lead and has now taken this role fully in our small team. Rob (Dodson) has been relishing his role as mason and has now been with us for coming up to 2 years. The team has settled down since November into our usual busy routine of reactive and planned maintenance.

The masons have been carving two replacement pinnacles that will be going up on the high roof’s east end towards the end of summer. This will be Rob’s first pinnacle going up on the Minster and he will be able to say ‘I did that’ to his young son when he passes.

New pinnacle going up summer 2023 & Rob cutting cores into pinnacle stones with Dennis supervising

Rob has tried to fill Steve’s shoes when it comes to the social media side of things, and letting people know what we are up to on site. He has done well, but this is something we will try to do more of as we do different work during the year. If you are on social media and would like to see what they are doing please follow them and let us have your thoughts and encouragement.

They can be followed on Twitter Beverleyminsteroldfund@beminster2 or on Facebook www.facebook.com/beverley.minsteroldfund.3

You may have seen a scaffold up on the North West tower during July. This was a quick up and down scaffold as the masons did some reactive maintenance to one of the larger tower pinnacles which was rocking due to loss of pointing and the corrosion of the iron cramps fitted by the Victorians. The scaffold

was not up there long as once erected the masons were up pointing and cleaning to secure the pinnacle. This is a typical reactive job that pulls them away from the day to day carving work and has a knock on affect on our planned work.

During the spring the team have been heavily involved in the auction of the old materials and other items to raise funds for Minster maintenance. Moving items from the yard and down from the roof voids was a big job which they undertook with support of the Verger team. The stones we saved since I took over in January 2017 and the timbers retained from the replacement of the nave roof 2021-22 raised just under £16,000 of the auction total of £39,000. This is something we are very proud of, and we will be keeping the two pinnacles coming down later this year for sale to raise more funds.

Dennis & Rob working on TNN02 from a scaffold over the edge of the North West tower. Photograph by Rob Dodson and Dennis Massey

We continue to try to raise the awareness of Beverley Minster amongst those who have as yet not paid us a visit or even know about us. Apart from the social media we hosted a site visit from the Yorkshire branch of SPAB (Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings) in November and a group was treated to a presentation and tour with John Phillips at the helm. We got some great feedback and hopefully these people will spread the word and return for a longer visit. This is something we will continue to do as the more people know about our great building the better.

Our latest challenge has been the safety lines that give us access to the places where we work from height. This includes all roofs as well as the clerestory. As it stands, we have a number of lines condemned and needing works and this has limited where we can get to

around the Minster including the clerestory. We are close to resolving the issues with the clerestory but still need to find the solution to the safety lines on the roof. We are also pushing this issue to be resolved sooner rather than later and access to all areas for the team to be restored.

We were upset not to have the peregrines nesting on the Minster this year, as they did for the first time last year. We are not sure if this is a result of the bird flu pandemic or the increase in drones being flown close to and around the towers. They have appeared in recent weeks to teach the fledglings to hunt from the South West tower. We hope we can entice them back next year.

We will soon be planning for 2024 and the next pinnacles to be replaced.

John Phillips

When I became chair of the Friends (in, I think, 2005) the secretary was Pam Hopkins. She and I worked together for a while. She was experienced in the systems and procedures that then operated, we knew each other and we got on easily. When she retired I was apprehensive: who would we find to replace her? How easy would it be for someone else to take up the reins of secretary? Quite quickly, someone was found - ‘that man who climbs all over the place looking at stones’ (or, rather better informed, ‘the man who records the masons’ marks’).

That man was, of course, John Phillips, deep into his life-changing work of investigating the building history of the Minster using masons’ marks as an entry point (subsequently to broaden to include documents and other sources of information). Here was obviously someone who loved the building and who was in the process of getting to know it probably more intimately than anyone before him (and

perhaps anyone after him). Those who want to know more and follow his explorations should read his book ‘“Of a fair uniforme making” - The building history of Beverley Minster 11881736’, published in 2016.

His research equipped him perfectly for the job of secretary of the Friends - for what characterises us as a group is a love and respect for the building itself and its heritage, and a commitment to spread knowledge about it and bring people to appreciate and understand it - and to care for it.

John brought many other qualities to the job of honorary secretary. He had a business background (selling products for the agriculture industry). This meant he used language and figures daily and was comfortable in using computers for key tasks of recording, communicating, storing and analysing information. He had a good understanding of finance and how to make the most productive use of money. His job also brought him into contact with a wide range of people and his friendliness, cheerfulness and outgoing nature were great assets.

John quickly took charge of the essential administrative tasks a secretary has to carry out such as issuing agendas, writing minutes and ensuring agreed actions happen. But he soon extended his role - for example into the outward facing side of the Friends. He put together the spring newsletters and the annual report, turning the latter into a major publication, working with Mervyn King on the design and production. I made a point of

reading Friends’ reports from all over the country and the Beverley reports were without doubt in the top league, in particular in advancing knowledge and understanding of aspects of the building, with John calling on his ever-developing network of scholars and specialists in such matters as medieval roof construction and misericords.

All aspects of our working arrangements were put to the test during Covid. At that time we were handling major restoration issues (such as the level of support we could offer for reroofing the lesser south transept and the nave). We were also in the process of redefining our funding priorities and updating Friends’ procedures and core documents to meet the demands of changing charity law. John put together and oversaw the papers that were put to the Friends’ Council for the necessary discussion of, and agreement on, these core strategic matters.Some proved contentious and difficult to resolve but we saw our way through by carrying out meetings by email (Council members preferred that to Zoom).

So there was no slackening in the progress of our business and John was the key person helping us achieve this when so much else had come to a stop.John was dealing with scores of emails in a week (sometimes in a day). He responded to and filed these with unfailing energy and sound judgement, often within the tightest of timescales. I thought that in some ways the email process worked better than traditional meetings - it allowed time for people to think through the issues, to decide what to say, to examine the views of others and to

make a considered judgement. It opened up new ways for the quieter participants in a meeting to contribute. We had more information than usual on which to make a decision and more time to think about the best way forward.

John and I worked very closely throughout all this. John was (is) always very positive and ‘his own man’. Inevitably on occasions we disagreed but that was never a difficult process. Many times I’ve been grateful for his wise words and his advice. When we differed in our views he was usually right and I was happy to change tack. We never ‘fell out’, our relationship was never other than warm and productive. Eighteen years is a long time to work together and it isn’t surprising that we have become close friends.

John’s love of the Minster gave his views urgency. He pressed for ways forward, to get decisions taken and implemented -’ let’s agree our priorities and get on with it’. John was quite prepared to ‘speak his mind’ and was respected for that and that helped to encourage vigorous discussion and debate within the Friends’ Council (and beyond).

Generosity is another quality John has in abundance. He has always been happy to share his knowledge - with whomever is interested and regardless of much or little they may know or how ‘important’ they may be. He has regularly been in place at the Highgate door on Saturday afternoons to welcome visitors and he has been the lead tour guide (of both ‘floor’ and ‘roofs’) for many years. Recently he has helped ‘train’ the team of

welcomers, including briefing notes and a series of four lectures that were well attended and enthusiastically received during May.

Five or so years ago John threatened to retire. In preparation for that I organised a card and got people to sign it. But I didn’t hand it to him as I had an intuition that he might be prevailed upon (subtly!) to change his mind. Which he did; I still have the card, ungiven, somewhere… Sadly this time I know John means it - he will retire this October come what may. So thank you, John. You have said many times that the Minster helped you at a critical stage in your life, it gave you direction and succour. Through it, you met many people, near and far; you became a part of a scholarly community in Beverley, in Yorkshire (churches and abbeys) and beyond. You were admitted a Fellow of the Society of Antiquaries. You put your findings into a book that has helped us see the building in new ways.

You would be the first to say that the Minster gave you a lot. You have repaid that in full in your service as secretary to the Friends.

Roger Lewis

St John’s Tombstone - John Phillips

For many years I, and others, have been intrigued with the ‘tomb’ which sits in the so called ‘Sisters’ tomb on the south side of the nave. It is an obvious concoction of two large Purbeck marble ledger slabs made into a sort of tomb chest with short limestone shafts and quatrefoil slabs making up the structure. Why are these two large, unmarked Purbeck ledger stones preserved in this position with not even a legend to indicate why they are there and no markings to suggest who they might have belonged to? Research into different, unconnected sources has found some intriguing possibilities.

The first one is The visitation of the county of Yorke, begun in A ̊ Dn̄ i MDCLXV, and finished A ̊ Dn̄ i MDCLXVI, by William Dugdale.

The Publications of the Surtees Society established in the year M.DCCC.XXXIV. vol. xxxvi. for the year M.DCCC.LIX. London: J.B. Nichols and Sons, Printers, 25, Parliament street.

William Dugdale was Norroy King of Arms and made a visitation of Yorkshire in the 1660s principally to record the coats of arms of all the arms bearers in Yorkshire. These were

published. The following paragraphs appear on page 22 of the published book as a single entry between the achievements of Skelton of Osmundthorpe on page 21 and Austwick of Pontefract on page 23, so apparently completely out of context.

In ao 1664, upon taking up of a large and thick marble stone , lying in the midst of the Church of BEVERLEY, neare ye Entrance into the Quire, there was found under it A Vault of squared freestone, five foot in length, two foot in breadth at ye head, and one foot and an halfe at the foot. In which Vault there was A Sheet of Lead foure foot in length, contayning the Dust of ST. JOHN of BEVERLEY; as also six beades, whereof three were of Cornelian, the other crumbled to dust: there were also in it three great brasse pins, and foure iron nayles. Upon this Sheet of Lead was fixed A Plate of Lead, whereon was this following inscription Also, A Box of Lead, about seven inches in length, six inches broad, and five in heighth, lying athwert the plate of Lead. In this Box were Divers peices of Bones, mixt with dust, yeilding a sweet smell. All which were reinterred, by direction of the present Archbysshop of Yorke.

(Original copy, probably contemporary, Hull History Centre.)

Translation:

In the year 1188 from the Incarnation of Our Lord this church was burned in the month of September on the night following the feast of St Mathew the Apostle [that is 26 September], and in the year 1197 on 6 Ides March [9 March] an enquiry was made into the relics of the blessed John in this place, and his bones came to light in the east part of the grave, and these concealed, mixed with mortar and dust, were discovered and concealed in the same place.

The Sisters’ tomb in the nave has within it a ‘tomb chest’ composed of the two large marble ledger stones and constructed with moulded stonework of indeterminate date. We know, from other sources, that at the time the event described by Dugdale took place that the nave still contained a large number of medieval ledger stones. These were drawn and described by James Torre, an antiquarian who also catalogued York Minster’s ledger stones, and was also interested in genealogy so he recorded arms as well. He died in 1699 so his Beverley catalogue is earlier. (MS in the British Library, Lansdowne 896.)

He drew all the ledger stones, and it becomes obvious that nearly all had contained brasses or brass plates which had already been robbed. The 18[th] century restorers obviously believed that these stones, because no names were recorded, had no value which is why they cut them up, turned them over, and used them to make the black diamond patterns in the transepts, particularly the north transept. He doesn’t mention any uninscribed stones ‘of blew marble’ which is how he describes many of the Purbeck marble ledger stones.

A page from British Library Lansdowne MS 896 showing Torre’s drawings

According to Poulson in ‘Beverlac’ the nave floor was re-laid in the 1736 as part of ongoing improvements which must have necessitated the removal of the ‘large and thick’ Purbeck marble stone in the centre of the floor, together with a second, which may represent the grave of Berthuin, the first abbot of John’s monastery. It is reasonable to assume that the 18th century improvers, recognising the great significance of the stone in the history of the place, decided not to destroy it, as they did with all the other ledger stones, but to preserve it in an appropriate place. He also records that the tomb location was left unmarked but was under the ‘fifth centre square slab of black marble from the tower westward’, whereas the engraved stone which now marks the grave site is fourth from the central tower.

Poulson’s ‘Beverlac’ (1829) records the event: (page 681.)

‘Having lifted the stone and before the new floor was laid an arched vault of brick was built over John’s remains and an additional inscription was added to those already recorded.’

“ Reliquae eadem effossae et ibidem reompositae fornice lateritio dignabuntur xxv die mensis Martii anno domini MDCCXXXVI quando et tesselatum ecclesie hujus pavimentum fuit instratum”.

Which translates thus: “The same relics having been taken up and replaced in the same situation, were honoured with an arched brick vault on the 25[th] day of the month of March, 1736, when the chequered pavement of this church was first laid.”

A search of the accounts for the Warton Benefaction in the East Riding Archives in the Beverley Treasure House gave no further clues to possible connections between these two apparently unconnected events. Most of the accounts are simply payments for goods and services. However, one entry in the Warton accounts opens another intriguing possibility. ‘1735, May 29. Mr Jubb his fees and for removing Percy’s monument.’ ‘Removing’ in this context probably has the same general meaning as ‘removals’ as in moving house, relocating from one place to another. Is this the moment that the ‘Sisters’ tomb canopy was moved from being over the tomb chest in the transept to its current position in the nave. The structure itself is thought to have been moved because of the way it is fitted into the space between the piers and was clearly not built for that space.

Poulson, again in ‘Beverlac’ also describes the tomb in the north transept as that of ‘Mr Percy’, - the attribution of the tomb to Nicholas

Huggate came much later, - but the only Mr Percy that we know of who was buried in the Minster was ‘George Percy, a priest.’ His tomb is mentioned by John Leland in the early 16[th] century when he came to Beverley and described the Minster as ‘of a fair uniforme making.’ George Percy died in 1474 so the tomb in the north transept clearly cannot be his for stylistic reasons but the designation seems to have persisted at least until 1829 when ‘Beverlac’ was published, complete with illustrations of ‘Mr Percy’s’ tomb. Both tomb and canopy are discussed in detail by Nicholas Dawton in ‘Beverley 2000’ edited by Rosemary Horrox and published by the Friends. (Pages 131 et seq,) He errs towards the attribution of the canopy to Idonea Percy who died in 1360 but, again, stylistically it can be attributed to the second quarter of the 14[th] century which ties in with Huggate’s death in 1338.

All these snippets raise intriguing questions. Mr Jubb was paid for removing the Percy monument in May 1735. The new floor of the nave was laid in March 1736 which would have necessitated the removal of the marble slab. There being no memorial within the ‘Sisters’ tomb canopy this may have proved to be the ideal place to preserve John’s tomb slab. I have recently measured both the Huggate tomb chest, and the ‘Sisters’ canopy and it is no surprise that the two fit together exactly, so the deductions made from the small pieces of information that we have are likely to be correct.

As a postscript, one of the many legends that surround the Minster says that the dole of bread was instituted by the ‘Two Sisters’ and distributed to the poor of the parish off this stone throughout the 19[th] century which indicates that it is probably a place of some significance. Clearly the name of the canopy can only date at the earliest from 1736 after it

was moved from the north transept. The attribution to two sisters who gifted pasture for two milch cows on the Westwood, or to the sisters of Earl Puch, a Saxon nobleman mentioned in one of John’s miracle accounts are much more recent inventions. Why then was, and is, the canopy known as ‘The Two Sisters’ tomb?

Aspects of Pilgrimage at Beverley Minster

Medieval Pilgrims (from Chaucer's 'Canterbury Tales'.)

In the late 1890s the American modernist architect Louis Sullivan coined the maxim that ‘form follows function’. In other words, the way a building looks is determined by its purpose; so if we pay attention to the appearance of a well-designed building, we may learn something important about what it is for.

Beverley Minster is a church; but not just any church. When visitors ask, ‘Why is it so big?’, the answer is, chiefly, because it is a pilgrimage church. If we wish to understand the appearance of the Minster, it is worth paying attention to the nature of medieval pilgrimage.

Medieval Christianity was expressed not only through formal services such as the Mass. Preaching crosses, wayside shrines, bridge chapels, holy wells and the ringing of the angelus all provided ways for people to be reminded of God’s presence and guidance in the everyday landscape without the need for ‘going to church’ as such.

Pilgrimage was an important part of that nonliturgical dimension of religion; and a place like Beverley Minster needed to accommodate the regular round of formal liturgical worship undertaken by the College of Canons with their pastoral and institutional responsibilities alongside the less organized and more personal forms of devotion required by the pilgrims.

Pilgrims needed to be able to move around and gain access to the saint’s tomb and shrine; they needed to be able to confess their sins, seek absolution and purchase indulgences since many undertook pilgrimage as an act of penance; they would want to be able to offer prayers and intercessions as close to the shrine as possible; they needed to be able to gather for the major festivals, especially the saint’s feast day, which would be marked by big liturgical services; and they would want to be able to touch, kiss and venerate the relics on display, or the tomb or shrine containing them. They would also want to buy candles as ex voto offerings, and badges which not only showed that they had visited a major shrine but were also thought to confer protection on the journey home.

Pilgrim badge of Sts John of Beverley and Bridlington (Museum of London collection)

The focus of a medieval pilgrimage was the shrine of a saint; and the shrine would contain the saint’s bones. Holy bones were important because they provided a hotline to heaven. A saint was someone whose holiness of life had been recognized through the performing of miracles, and who was believed to be in the presence of God in heaven, where they could intercede on behalf of those who petitioned them. The relics of a saint were therefore an important point of connection between earth and heaven, the visible material world and the invisible spiritual world, the eternal and the temporal. Prayers offered in the presence a saint’s relics were as good as praying in the presence of God himself; and the efforts involved in making a pilgrimage to a saint’s shrine (and the offerings made there) were thought to be a good way of gaining the saint’s ear and their advocacy before God.

All of this reflects medieval Christianity’s emphasis on the instrumentality of prayer (ie. prayer as a very practical way of getting certain things done) and on the physical nature of religion. Pilgrims believed that just as prayers were made more effective by the saint being close to God in heaven, so they were made even more powerful if the petitioner was close to the physical remains of the saint on earth.

The status of a saint was established by their success in gaining answers to prayers and the attendant miracles. The tomb of John of Beverley first became a destination for pilgrims in the 8[th] century because people reported that the prayers they offered at his tomb were being answered, usually prayers for healing. This practice would have begun because of John’s reputation as a holy man with a ministry of healing, as we read in Bede’s Ecclesiastical History of the English People.

Once pilgrims started coming, a shrine would develop a reputation. Different saints were thought to specialize in prayers for certain kinds of need. St John was associated with cases of hearing and speech impediment in particular. Religious communities would not be satisfied with the relics of only one saint, but would seek to build up collections of many relics to attract as broad a spectrum of pilgrims as possible. Since the Second Council of Nicaea in 787 it was a requirement that every altar should incorporate a relic from a saint, which strengthened the role of the altar as a place of prayer, and meant that the number of altars in churches increased.

Although Cathedrals, abbeys and collegiate foundations like Beverley Minster built up great collections of relics, the most attractive shrines in England were often the ones with relics of local saints rather than the more famous apostles in the Bible. The cult of saints originated in acts of commemoration at the tomb or site of martyrdom, and so a strong local connection counted for more than the saint’s wider fame. It also made for a stronger provenance for the authenticity of the relics. At Beverley there were shrines not only to St John of Beverley but also St Berthun, St Winwald and St Polfrida, the first of whom was abbot of Beverley after St John.

Medieval reliquary

The most popular shrines tended also to be the wealthiest. Generous offerings were encouraged, both to attract the saint’s

attention and by way of thanksgiving when prayers were answered. And the higher the footfall, the greater the income. In this way building projects could be financed even if there was no major aristocratic patron. The Minster is a product of the pilgrim trade, and the support of successive Archbishops of York who were ex officio part of the College.

A shrine is not quite the same as a tomb. In 1037 we know that Archbishop Aelfric arranged for John of Beverley’s bones to be removed from its former elaborately carved wooden shrine and placed in a splendid new gold and silver shrine which was displayed near the High Altar. This tells us that John’s bones had already been taken from the tomb much earlier, and that John had been recognised as a saint well before Aelfric’s time.

The tomb also remained a focus for devotion. Pilgrims to the Minster probably aimed to pray not only at the shrine, but also at the tomb and the Standard of St John, which by the 12[th] century had acquired its own significance. A similar multiple focus developed in Canterbury Cathedral, where pilgrims would aim to visit the site of Thomas Becket’s martyrdom in the North Transept (Becket was incidentally also Provost of Beverley Minster at the time of his martyrdom, amongst his other sinecures), his tomb in the crypt, and the shrine in the Trinity Chapel above the crypt behind the High Altar.

The fact that John’s tomb was probably empty once his bones had been removed to the shrine did not make the tomb less worthy of veneration. Like St Thomas Becket’s tomb in Canterbury there were parallels to be made with Jesus’ empty tomb; it was a sign not of absence, but of resurrected presence. It was said that the saint’s tomb sweated blood during the entire day of the battle of Agincourt! It seems likely that the tomb

provided more of a focus for uncontrolled popular devotion, while the shrine above the High Altar was under more direct control of the sacristan and the college authorities, and was the focus for more formal occasions of veneration.

In 1292 a new shrine for St John was commissioned from Roger of Faringdon, with an outer reliquary 5 ft 6 ins long and 1 ft 6 ins wide, made of gold and silver, ‘of proportionate height, beautiful, and adorned with plates and columns of masons’ work with figures of cunning and beautiful work… and canopies and pinnacles before and behind, and other proper ornaments such as belong to goldsmiths’ work’. It was to be capable of being winched up to reveal the inner reliquary displaying the relics themselves.

The reredos containing medieval graffiti

The shrine was located on the reredos behind the High Altar. This location has the advantage of elevating the shrine to public view from a distance, whilst keeping it secure. Such was the value of a saint’s relics that thefts were not unknown, justified on the grounds that the guardian community was not showing sufficient devotion to the saint, who therefore permitted its removal to a more reverential site!

Medieval graffiti on the east side of the reredos

The shrine also needed to be removable, because a reliquary didn’t have to remain static but could be carried in procession. In Beverley there was an annual procession at Rogationtide leading up to Ascension Day when the shrine was paraded through the town and to the various chapels of ease over a period of several days.

The devotion shown for saints by pilgrims could be both absorbed and encouraged by the presence of multiple altars, each dedicated to a different saint and containing its own relic. At Beverley there were at least 16 altars, in addition to the High Altar. They would have been located in the side chapels of the transepts, in the lesser transepts, and against the pillars of the nave as well as in the Lady Chapel at the east end and the chapel of St Martin which was a separate building, the remains of which can be seen outside the south west corner of the nave.

The sense of an open, unified building which we see today would have been less evident before the Reformation, as the Minster would have been divided up by screens into separate spaces occupied by altars for chantries, Guilds and the devotions of parishioners from different pastoral areas of Beverley. The nave itself would have remained an open space,

allowing access to the tomb of St John and to the quire aisles. There would have been a concentration of altars in the eastern arm of the building, so that pilgrims approaching the shrine (who might possibly have had to queue as they did so) could venerate other saints at altars along the route past the lesser transepts and Lady Chapel.

One of the ways in which access to a shrine could be maximized was by the creation of a crypt where pilgrims could both access the tomb of the saint in the crypt below and see the shrine containing the bones on display above. It is somewhat surprising that there is no evidence of such an arrangement at Beverley Minster, presumably because the water table is too high to allow any structure below the floor. The ancient well by the High Altar would have been of interest to pilgrims, although it was located within the quire stalls used by the Canons. Water was probably drawn from the well and sold elsewhere on the site.

What we do see in the Minster is an arrangement of screens and stalls in the quire allowing the resident community of canons, vicars, clerks and chantry priests to conduct its regular round of daily worship without being disrupted by the pilgrims who were able to circulate around the north and south quire aisles, as tourists still do today, in order to access the underside of the shrine from the retrochoir. This was the Beverley equivalent of the holy of holies, the closest a pilgrim could get to the physical remains of St John himself. We still see the evidence of that veneration in the hundreds of graffiti left by grateful pilgrims on the wall of the shrine platform. These are not evidence of anti-social behaviour, as we might understand modern graffiti; but are rather the result of grateful pilgrims recording their thanks to God for answered prayers. The

continuing popularity of John’s tomb in the nave may indicate that the shrine at the High Altar was not always accessible, and that the route around the quire aisles was only opened up on special occasions.

Some of the detailing in the Minster also reflects its status as a pilgrimage church. There are carvings, such as one in the nave showing a pilgrim entangled by a dragon, showing the danger of undertaking pilgrimage for the wrong reasons. There are royal heads wearing crowns in the south aisle which are thought to be representations of Edward II and his Queen Isabella, who visited Beverley as pilgrims several times.

Pilgrim struggling with dragons

In the upper levels of the Minster there is evidence of an eastern tower above the High Altar, which was probably the tower which collapsed in 1213. The original purpose of this tower is likely to have been to cast light onto the shrine and High Altar, literally highlighting the importance of the church‘s centrepiece.

Pilgrimage to medieval shrines effectively came to an end in 1538 when Thomas Cromwell drafted Royal Injunctions declaring that the

Crowned Letter B - John of Beverley - Replica Medieval Pilgrim Badge (Original in Museum of London collection).

faithful should not engage in ‘wandering to pilgrimages, offering money, candles, or tapers to images or relics, or kissing or licking the same.’ In 1548 the college at Beverley was suppressed, and presumably the tomb was destroyed, the shrine confiscated, the bones burned, and the costly reliquary melted down to help pay for new castles.

Form follows function. To some extent, Beverley Minster’s form reflects that of any medieval church. It was designed for liturgical use, especially the celebration of the mass, but not in any narrow sense; it was also a representation of the kingdom of heaven on earth, and is full of imagery not just illustrating biblical scenes but also evoking the whole spectrum of life, with everything depicted as part of God’s created world and under his sovereign rule. There is no false distinction between sacred and secular, which is an entirely modern separation. Our inner demons and the powers of sin and evil are given graphic representation, alongside our human follies. All the saints and angels of heaven are there along with foliage of every kind

representing the natural world and particularly the vine, image of the Eucharist and of Jesus the True Vine.

The Minster was also designed to accommodate the needs of a resident

community of priests following a demanding round of daily worship, whose needs had to be reconciled with those of thousands of pilgrims. These came through the doors in their thousands, needing to look, touch and pray at the places where they believed they could, for a while, become part of the company of heaven and have their prayers heard and their burdens relieved with the help of the saints, and especially St John of Beverley.

It is the original function of Beverley Minster as a pilgrimage church which reminds us that what we see today, beautiful and historic as it is, is only a shell. What the pilgrims came to see has gone.

We still wonder at the craftsmanship and vision which led to the creation of this amazing jewel casket. But from the point of view of the masons who constructed it, the priests who ran it, and the pilgrims who paid for it, visited it, and used it to draw near to God, the treasure this casket was made to contain is no longer there.

Jonathan Baker

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St John's grave site
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Auction of Surplus Goods and Materials

In July 2019 the Minster Architect, Andy Burrell, completed a Pinnacle Condition survey of the High Roofs, West Towers and Tympanum. This survey identified several pinnacles, which were in need of renewal, as a high priority.

roof tiles, sarking board which had been used as lead bearing boards on the roofs, large pieces of 12[th] and 16[th] century oak beams and many other items. From that discussion the idea of an auction was born.

Prior to this, a new charity entitled Two Churches One Town (2COT), had been set up to work with The Minster, St Mary’s and East Riding of Yorkshire Council to raise funds to enable both The Minster and St Mary’s to undertake the significant works required to maintain the fabric of both these significant buildings in Beverley.

The Minster was successful in obtaining an Heritage Lottery Fund grant for the project which included the renewal of the leadwork to the Lesser South Transept roof and associated stonework (The Sanctuary Project). To enable benefit to be gained from use of the scaffolding it was decided to replace the relevant pinnacles in this area. Subsequently we were also able to obtain a grant from the Cultural Recovery Fund for Heritage: Major Works Fund for Cathedrals and Major Churches for the Nave Roof Replacement. Replacement pinnacles were also included in the project.

When these pinnacles were replaced, the existing pinnacles were stored in the yard of The Minster workshops area. Before I retired as Chairman of the Beverley Minster Old Fund, when I was talking with the Minster Surveyor, Simon Delaney, we said “what are we going to do with all this stuff stored in the yard”. As well as the pinnacles it included wrought iron gates,

Over the next few months Caroline and John Hawley visited The Minster and enthused about the idea which then included many items stored in the roof space of The Minster and also items from St Mary’s including 19[th] century oak pews designed by Sir Gilbert Scott. Caroline also suggested that we ask members of both congregations and the general public at large to attend Valuation Days to bring their own items and, if they wanted to donate them to 2COT, that would be an added benefit.

The Minster and St Mary’s are collaborating to raise the necessary funds rather than competing in a difficult time for fundraisers.

As a result of all this an auction was held in The Minster on Saturday 8[th] July with over 200 lots. Many of these had been donated by members of the public. The auction was conducted by Caroline Hawley, our local Bargain Hunt celebrity.

Despite interest from across the globe who were bidding on two internet platforms, the historic items will remain in the UK as determined collectors outbid challenges from as far afield as China, the US, Mauritius, Sweden and Bulgaria.

Caroline (above) was behind the rostrum for over 3 hours in front of a large audience and online to over 350 registered online bidders.

Twenty Tadcaster stone pinnacles dating back to the 13[th] century, raised a total of £15,720 – including a top bid of £4,400. Other items from The Minster included brass light fittings that raised over £1700, two pairs of wrought iron gates £550 and £500, small pieces of oak beams raised £225 and the sarking boards £550, carved pieces of oak panels raised over £3000 and the handcart used to transport scaffolding and stone around The Minster raised £1000.

Items donated by the general public also raised large amounts of money. A 9ct gold hunter pocket watch raised £500. Various watches and clocks raised over £2000 a planished silver coffee pot raised £500, various silver mustard pots raised £475 and many pictures, painting and etchings and other general other items went under the hammer. The19th century Sir Gilbert Scott designed oak pews from St Mary’s raised over £3000.

In total the auction raised just under £39,000 and Caroline said “she was delighted with the outcome as it’s very hard to predict what these types of lots would raise, especially rare ancient artifacts, but I must say the response was fantastic with some great results”

Caroline has also said that she is willing to accept items for her future auctions if people wish to continue contributing to 2COT and they should contact Hawleys Auctioneers. All funds raised go the 2COT and funds specifically from lots from The Minster and St Mary’s and donations also so stated will have the money ring fenced for each particular church.

Claire and Jonathan Levy produced a documentary film for 2COT which can be found on the Two Churhes One Town website.

Claire and Jonathan also undertook PR activity to promote the auction and press coverage included all the local/regional media including BBC Look North and ITV News/Calendar who featured items both before the auction and after the event. PR was also sent to a wide range of international media, although we haven't been able to monitor any overseas coverage, we hope it may have contributed to some of the international interest. This all achieved huge publicity for 2COT and raised the profile of the town of Beverley and the these two magnificent churches.

When Simon and I first broached this idea we had no idea that it would be such a success. We thank everyone who has so geneously donated items for sale and hope that they will continue to do so in the future.

Martin Needler

Former Chairman, Beverley Minster Old Fund

Ave atque Vale

Back in 2008 when I was elected to the Friends Council, and became secretary almost without a pause for breath, our Annual Report for that year published an article by Pamela Hopkins, the retiring Secretary called ’15 Years a Secretary’. I wouldn’t steal Pamela’s thunder by entitling this one ’16 Years a Secretary.’ That has feelings of ‘déjà vu’ so ‘Ave atque Vale’ will suffice.

In 2008 Pamela’s article in the Annual Report gave details of her time as secretary of the Friends which started with her close involvement with the Pilgrim Window in the retrochoir and included other projects such as the publication of ‘Beverley Minster, an illustrated history in 2000, and ‘Who Built Beverley Minster’ in 2009, as well as other projects within the Minster.

In many ways, the last 16 years has been about making Friends. I was almost a complete stranger when I took the job on, and over the intervening years friendships have developed within the Friends, particularly with Roger Lewis, with whom I have worked in a very rewarding partnership, through thick and thin, until his retirement at the end of last year. This is going to sound corny, but the Friends Council is a very friendly organisation. I cannot remember at any time where reasoned disagreements have developed into a more heated discussion. We have the advantage of being in a very healthy financial state, which creates its own pressure points, but I am happy that where we have used our opportunities to assist financially, we have spent wisely and well.

My time as secretary to the Friends council has seen continued support for ‘Music in the Minster’, a centre of excellence under Robert Poyser which continues to develop with support from the Friends and other funding bodies. We also underwrote the cost of the Steinway grand piano which was purchased in 2008. We have also assisted in the renewal of the roofs of the south east transept and the nave as well as other less spectacular projects. One project however which was spectacular was the re-gilding of the clock face on the north tower which generated a huge amount of interest.

Research into the history of the building, including extensive dendrochronology of the main roofs has been supported by the Friends over several years. The publication of my book in 2017 which gave the results of research up to that point will soon be augmented by a new and important article, ‘The Date of Beverley Minster and its Role in the Development of Northern Gothic in the late-12th and early13th Centuries’, which will be published by the BAA later this year and will also available online thanks to the generosity of the Friends. I am hugely grateful to the Friends in their unstinting support for my endeavours to unravel the history of our amazing building which resulted in me being elected a Fellow of the Society of Antiquaries of London in 2018.

To compliment the ongoing research, over my time as secretary, I have encouraged the contributions of articles by learned colleagues on aspects of the history of the Minster to the AR, as well as asking our St John lecture

speakers to give a résumée of their talks so that the information imparted can reach a wider audience. I hope this trend will continue.

And finally, I wish to extend my very sincere thanks for the help and support I have received from all past and present members of the Friends Council over the past 16 years. I couldn’t have done it without you. And I wish Mary Mead, and my nominated successor (to be elected), Fiona Goel, and current and future members of the Council good fortune in their endeavours to conserve and preserve our fabulous piece of England’s fabulous buildings heritage.

John Phillips

Photo: Stuart Harrison

Annual Accounts 2021- 2022 35

James Moore, Treasurer

Independent Examiner’s Report

In connection with my recent examination, no matter has come to my attention:

Which gives me reasonable cause to believe that in any material aspect the requirements to keep accounting records in accordance with Section 41 of the 1993 Act; and to prepare accounts which accord with the accounting records and comply with the accounting requirements of the 1993 Act have not been met, or 2. To which, in my opinion, attention should be drawn in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached.

David Sunman, Fellow of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (FCCA)

Financial Review

Summary of Results

Results for the year show a net positive movement of funds of £61,023 and at the end of March 2023 the net assets totalled £92,166. Further details of the financial position of the charity are set out in the accounts included in the report.

Reserves

The reserves at the date of the balance sheet totalled £981,469, all unrestricted. The funds are held in reserve for future expenditure on projects for which ongoing collaboration between the Friends and Minster PCC continues to identify suitable projects. It is anticipated that a number of the projects will require substantial levels of funding, consequently over the medium term the level of reserves is expected to reduce substantially.

Investments

The investments are held in the CBF Church of England Investment Fund and a deposit account managed by the CCLA.

Bequests and donations

This year the Friends have benefitted from generous legacies from the estates of

Ella M Parsons

Marie Croasdale

Ian Norman Goldthorpe

Ian H Stewart

In addition, a donation was received in support of the work on the Minster roof which the Friends supported to the value of £373,000 in 2021- 2022.

James Moore

Annual General Meeting Agenda 2023

THE AGM OF THE FRIENDS OF BEVERLEY MINSTER TO BE HELD IN THE PARISH HALL ON SATURDAY 7 OCTOBER 2023

at 2.00 p.m

A G E N D A

Apologies for absence
Minutes of the 2021 AGM held on Monday 8[th] October 2022
Matters arising 4. Council Chair’s Report Ms Mary Mead 5. Hon. Secretary’s Report Mr John Phillips 6. Hon. Treasurer’s Report Mr James Moore 7. Hon. Membership Secretary’s Report Ms Liz Grove 8. Hon. Social Secretary’s Report Miss Pamela Martin 9. Vicar’s Report Revd Canon Jonathan Baker
The adoption of the reports proposed by the Mayor of Beverley, Cllr Tom Astell 11. Election of Officers

To be re-elected:

President

Mrs Pamela Hopkins

Vice Presidents

Hon Chair

Hon. Social Secretary

Hon. Secretary

Hon. Minutes Secretary

Hon. Treasurer

Hon. Membership Secretary

Mayor of Beverley, Prof Roger Lewis, Messrs Terry Holmes, Richard Kemp, and Peter Calvert Ms Mary Mead Miss Pamela Martin Mrs Fiona Goel (awaiting election) Dr Susan Neave Mr James Moore Ms Liz Grove

To be elected:

New members of the Council.

Dr Susan Neave

Mr Mike Robson

Mr James Palmer

Any Other Business

AGM Minutes 2022

MINUTES OF THE ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING OF THE FRIENDS OF BEVERLEY MINSTER HELD ON 8TH OCTOBER 2022.

The meeting was chaired by the President of the Friends, Ms Pamela Hopkins

Present: Stephen Deas, Pam Hopkins, Berna Moody, Pam Wilkinson, Alan Wilkinson, Gillian Fawcett, Bernard Vickers, Karla Vickers, Jane Payne, Margaret Bailey, Stan Bailey, Joyce Shaw, Penny & Jerry Booth, Susan Neave, David Neave, Mildred Hill, Rita Steadman, Mary Mead, Hamlyn Lloys, Jackie Odoni, Geoffrey Care, Mike Robson, Myfanwy Ryan, Geoffrey Stephenson, June Stephenson, A. Aveyard, John Askey, Jane Jarman, Martin Eldred, Mervyn King, Meg Choules, Patricia Brunt, David Brunt, Graham Johnson, Linda Johnson, (Mayor of Beverley,) Pamela Martin, Liz Grove, Roger Lewis, Jonathan Baker, James Moore, John Phillips.

Apologies for absence: Angela Chapman, Gail Cahill, Martin Needler, Val Coss, Peter and Pam Quigley, Michael Moss, Barbara Hyde, Mrs John Askey

The minutes of the AGM held on 16 October 2022 were passed – nem con. Proposed by John Askey, seconded by Jackie Odoni.

Matters arising – none

Outgoing Chairman’s report 1 April 2020 to 31 March 2021 (Roger Lewis)

If all goes as planned today, this will be my last meeting as your chairman. In this year’s published annual report I give a view on the effectiveness of the Friends as an organisation and say that I am leaving a discussion of one aspect until this AGM. That aspect is the

officers; in particular I want to give some background to the elections to be held later in this meeting.

Each year I say thank you - both personally and on behalf of members - to those who carry the weight of ongoing responsibility for the functioning of the Friends as an organisation. All officers work on a purely voluntary basis; they receive no payment of any kind and enjoy no benefits, other than the satisfaction of carrying out the work to help us meet our purposes as an independent organisation and thereby to benefit the Minster.

In our case, the officers are those of Chair; Treasurer; Secretary; Membership Secretary, and Programme Secretary. We also have the role of President and we have a number of vice-presidents (in most cases, individuals who, over a number of years, have served the Friends and the building selflessly and with distinction).

We are very fortunate to retain the services of James as Treasurer, John as Secretary, Liz as Membership Secretary and Pam as Programme Secretary. They know exactly what they are doing and they do it excellently, year after year. They work closely together. Their continuing in these roles (assuming you elect them later today) will also ensure stability as the organisation acquires a new President and a new Chair.

In addition to these officers, other members of the Friends have played active roles. Stephen Deas is always a source of wise advice, someone to talk to to help think through issues and how to address them. Mervyn King has for

years handled all our publicity material and our annual reports and newsletters; he has also made sure we are prominent on the Minster’s website. I’d also like to thank Mike Robson who has looked after our marketing, for example via the clock regilding (including appearances on television and radio) and our stall at the Christmas tree festival. Helena Anderson and Robert Poyser were very helpful in our response to the Archbishop of York’s request for policies on a range of activities.

A word, then, about the changes we propose.

Long-term AGM attendees will be aware that this meeting is usually chaired by the Bishop of Hull in their role of President. We assumed this role belonged to the Bishop ‘ex officio’ but closer reading of our Constitution shows that this is not so. We can elect any suitable person as President and (as with all the other officers) we appoint the President on an annual basis. We discussed at the Council who would be suitable and all agreed that Pamela Hopkins would be ideal. Pam will be leaving her chair’s seat for the duration of (what we hope will be) her election later this afternoon but we hope she will be quickly able to resume it! Many will know Pam as the author of many books and articles on Beverley and the Minster, for her work as a guide to the town and not least for her time as secretary to the Friends. She has retained her membership of the Friends and has helped us in many ways over the years.

I am standing down as Chair this year. The Council appointed a ‘search group’ to look for a successor. This was a rigorous process, using a job description for the role, agreed by the Council. I’m glad to say that a name was forthcoming - that of Mary Mead. Mary has had extensive and relevant experience within the Minster (for example, she has had three children in the choir and has organised several

choir tours, including this year’s tour). Also, beyond the Minster - Mary has worked in industry, particularly in project management roles.

I also want to draw to your attention the proposal that we create a new post of Minutes Secretary. This will help John carry out all the other tasks he has as Secretary. We are fortunate that Dr Susan Neave - who also happens to be giving this year’s St John Lecture - is prepared to take on this role. Many here will know of Susan’s contributions to the history of Beverley but also beyond that to many other projects and publications that promote our town (and region) and increase the public’s knowledge of the riches we have to offer. I also happen to know that she is an impeccable minutes secretary within another organisation.

As with the President, these posts are proposed and seconded - by individuals not by the Council, but your Council is in full support of all we are proposing this afternoon.

In commending these arrangements, I also want to use this as an opportunity to ask others to come forward, maybe next year, either to take on an officer role or to support current office holders. We always need new people!

We also need new people on the Friends’ Council - not least to keep it dynamic and representative of the membership. Involvement on the Council is also a good way of moving into an officer role. We particularly need people with experience in the heritage world, in charity law and governance - and people who are younger than many of us. And anyone motivated by love of our splendid building. Please help us to find such people!

Finally I must once again thank all my colleagues on the Council. I have valued their hard work and expertise and willingness to put up with my demands and with my idiosyncrasies. I consider them to be good Friends (in both senses) and look forward to that continuing. I offer my warmest wishes and support to those taking on new roles and particularly to Mary assuming she is later elected as Chair. I am confident that the future of the organisation will be in good hands. And I finish with thanks to you all, for many years of conversations, fun and laughter, often over the excellent refreshments Pam always provides.

the template would be forwarded to the Archbishop's office, as required.

Proposed NHLF Bid: Following the special meeting on and following 20th October to consider support for a request for another match funding option for a new NHLF bid from 2COTS, the meeting was informed that 2COTS had not been invited by NHLF to enter a further stage of the bidding process. So further discussion was unnecessary. At that meeting it was decided to form a new group to discuss future bids for funding, consisting of delegates from 2COTS, the PCC, the Old Fund and the Friends. The Chair had asked Gail Cahill and John Phillips to represent the Friends.

Secretary’s Report – John Phillips

At all our meetings we discuss matters arising from the minutes of our previous meeting, our finances, our membership and our social programme. The following gives a résumée of the other business discussed at each of our meetings. At each meeting we also receive a report from the PCC, and on the progress of the Sanctuary project.

In November we discussed the position and role of President of the Friends which required definition and agreed to bring a draft role description to the February meeting.

Archbishop of York – patronage audit: New policy documents in line with the requirements of the audit had been circulated prior to the meeting. These included: Privacy Notice, a Safeguarding Policy, a Policy for Safeguarding of Vulnerable Adults, A Policy for the use of Photographs, a Diversity and Inclusion Policy and Digital Communications Guidelines. The Chair asked for general endorsement of these documents - which was given. The documents would then be finalised in early December and

In February a comparatively brief meeting discussed, apart from our usual items, the role of President, which we had returned to from the previous meeting, and the conclusion of the Archbishop’s Patronage Audit. All papers had now been passed back to the Archbishop’s office.

We also discussed the role of Trustees of the Friends. The Chair reported that Charity Commission guidance makes it clear that all members of the governing body of a charity act as its ‘trustees’. This applies whether they are elected, co-opted, or are representatives of another organisation. It was agreed to discuss, with the Treasurer, the possibility of indemnity insurance, to cover trustee liability.

In May we discussed the Appointment of Officers and Matters of Governance of Friends' Council

Roger Lewis spoke to the paper previously circulated. He and the secretary had been discussing for some time the succession of officers, with particular reference to their own posts of chair and secretary. He also reminded

Council members that the office of president of the Friends is an annual one, by election at the AGM, as discussed at the previous meeting.

The paper proposed that a ‘search committee’ be set up to identify suitable people to fill the offices of President, Chair, and Hon. Secretary of the Friends. Jonathan Baker, Stephen Deas, Helena Anderson, and Susan Neave agreed to form this committee and Stephen Deas was asked to convene its first meeting.

John Phillips summarised the recent meeting of the TCOTS Beverley Minster Project Board. The meeting had two main items on the agenda, new toilets and lighting. Two possible schemes to provide new toilet accommodation had been discussed. The project board agreed to ask the Minster Architect to commission a report on the state of the wiring.

Student Finance The Friends’ remit includes extending knowledge of the building and its history and one way to achieve this would be to support students on relevant advanced degrees (for example from York and Lincoln universities). A bursary, basically to cover transport costs, of £1,000 per student per year paid in instalments could help. In addition to the creation of new knowledge, another benefit to the Friends would be topics and speakers for the annual events programme. It was suggested that discussions should continue with Dr Kate Giles at York and begin (with Lincoln).

The Minister’s external environment

Roger Lewis explained that recent disturbance laying gas pipes in Highgate and Minster Yard North had highlighted the need for a unified approach to this area. Both the Friends and the Civic Society had kept a watching brief on the works; neither were impressed by the

standard of reinstatement, especially for the setts in Highgate. This situation highlights a wider issue: consideration of the whole Minster environment, as a setting for a building of major European importance. Insufficient attention has been given to the Minster area as the core of the tourist ‘offer’ of the town. It was suggested that a complete reassessment of the area with a proposal for a pedestrianised precinct in Minster Yard North, and consideration of a redevelopment of the parish hall complex as part of longer term plans, including the involvement of ERYC.

In August We received a Report from the search group who had been seeking people to take on the roles of chair and secretary. They reported that Pamela Hopkins had been approached and had agreed to be nominated as president at the AGM. A candidate for chair of the Friends’ Council had been found in the person of Mary Mead. It was agreed that an informal meeting between members of the Council and Mary Mead would be held before the AGM.

A replacement for the secretary had been impossible to find and various possible solutions were discussed. In the event I have decided to stay on for at least a further 12 months.

We also had further discussions updating the progress of the Student Finance scheme and the discussions on the Minster environment.

Treasurer’s report. James Moore presented the Accounts from the Annual Report and answered questions.

Treasurer’s report: James Moore gave an explanation of the Annual Accounts as published in the Annual Report and answered questions.

Membership Secretary’s report: Liz Grove Hon. Membership Secretary

Membership has remained steady over the last 12 months, our loss of long term members being more or less balanced by our new members. The number fluctuates within the 440-450 range on an annual basis which is cause for rejoicing the fact that the Friends continues to attract new members to help us conserve and preserve our fabulous building. I am especially delighted to welcome new Friends who have joined despite their intentions just to call in to the Minster for a concert or quick look around. At this point I would like to thank Mike Robson for his continued efforts helping us have a lively stand at the ever-popular Christmas Tree Festival. It has been a great opportunity to greet old Friends and welcome new ones. We hope that new members will feel that they are part of a thriving organisation and urge them to consider becoming members of the Friends Council.

We would encourage all members to pay by standing order if you can. It reduces administration for both you and us and ensures that regular payments don’t get missed - standing in a long queue at Barclays is not my idea of fun!. It is hoped that in the near future becoming a member via the Minster website will become much easier and more efficient as we progress changes in our system.

I would also like to record my personal thanks to Roger on his departure as Chair of the Friends. His tremendous leadership and enthusiasm for the Friends has been a constant source of support and inspiration over the many years that he has guided us. And as

ever, thank you for being such good Friends of Beverley Minster.

Social Secretary’s report : Pamela Martin

Study Day

On 27[th] April 17 people attended the series of lectures ‘Architecture and the Arts in Churches and Cathedrals in the 20th Century’, an excellent presentation delivered by Roger Willson.

Evenings in June

On 6[th] June 26 people attended John Phillips “New Discoveries at Beverley Minster – Trees and Stones.” The visit to St Mary's Parish Church, Beverley on 16[th] June was poorly attended but 18 people attended Mike Robson’s tour “Anecdotes and History” on the 20[th] June.

Coach Tour

On 29[th] July 37 people enjoyed the fascinating tour to the preceptory of the Knights Templar at Foulbridge followed by Gisborough Priory after lunch where the adjacent Parish church was opened for us to see the Brus Cenotaph and hear a talk on the church’s history.

Planning these events requires consideration of a number of Important factors.

The event has to appeal to people from all walks in life, and finding a knowledgeable speaker with good delivery is essential, preferably someone who will attract a good audience.

Planning a coach tour entails additional factors like planning a route, (preferably without low bridges!) which requires one or more trial runs, contacting all speakers, guides and all providers and venues, and also arranging lunch and refreshment locations.

In addition, behind the scenes there is preparing publicity, checking proofs and taking bookings and payments to be done, as well as dealing with queries.

The Friends are grateful for the support of the members and also those who are not Friends, but also support these events.

for the Choral Foundation has been an important factor in enabling this.

Vicar’s Report: - Jonathan Baker

In reviewing the life of Minster over last year it depends where you look – there have been many encouragements but there are also some darker corners which have been more challenging.

Volunteer Guides and Welcomers continue to engage with visitors to the Minster and the feedback on Tripadvisor shows what a good experience most visitors have.

After all the work done on the Minster roof last year, this year’s capital works programme has

been relatively quiet, and the focus of fundraising by Two Churches One Town has been on the next phase of work at St Mary’s. However, we are all grateful to the Friends for their generosity in funding work on the clock and the bells.

The joint working group from the Friends, PCC, 2COT and BMOF is working to identify which of the various capital projects on the 2COT programme of works can be undertaken next.

There are still many challenges, the most obvious of which is financial. With a new team taking over the running of the Minsters finances it has been clear that the professional support we had been relying on over the last couple of years has not been adequate. Sorting out the tangle has been a major exercise and is not over yet.

any services or events my advice is to wrap up warm.

We are currently without a curate, with Tim Kelly having moved on in May. We hope to get a new curate next summer.

congregations, volunteers, and the generosity of the Friends, as well as BMOF, and 2COT.

Adoption of the reports. Proposed by the Mayor of Beverley, Mrs Linda Johnson, seconded by Mike Robson

Carried, nem con.

Adoption of the new Financial Policy

Paying for heating this winter is a further challenge. It is likely that there will be reduced heating and is you are planning on coming to

Roger Lewis summarised the new Financial Policy and explained the reasons why it had become necessary to have a Financial Policy at this time.

Adoption was proposed by Rita Steadman, seconded by Stephen Deas.

The proposal was approved by a clear majority with one contra.

Election of Officers

President: Pamela Hopkins, proposed by John Askey, seconded by David Neave

Vice President: Roger Lewis, proposed Patricia Brunt, seconded Susan Neave

The remaining officers, Secretary, Programme secretary, Membership

secretary and Treasurer were re-elected en bloc. Proposed by Roger Lewis, seconded by Karla Vickers

Chair: Mary Mead, proposed by Bernard Vickers, seconded by Berna Moody

All elections were carried, nem con.

Election of New Members of the Council.

Minutes secretary: Susan Neave, proposed by Annegret Aveyard, seconded by Mervyn King

No nominations had been received.

Any other business.

Election of Honorary Vice president:

There was no further business.

Roger Lewis. Proposed by Patricia Brunt, seconded by Susan Neave

Members of the Council 2022-2023

Ms Mary Mead (Chair) Email: beverleyminsterfriendschair@gmail.com

Mr James Moore (Hon. Treasurer) 3 The Orchard, Tickton, Beverley HU17 9JE Tel. 01964 544145 Email: jamesfmoore@hotmail.co.uk

Mr John Phillips (Acting Hon. Secretary) 20 Fawcett Gardens, Driffield, Y025 5NR Tel: 01377 241082 Email: denscanis@yahoo.co.uk

Ms Liz Grove (Hon. Membership Secretary) 5 Long Lane Beverley HU17 0NH Email: Friends@beverleyminster.org.uk

Ms Meg Choules (PCC Representative)

Rt Rev David James (PCC nominee)

Mr Martin Needler (Old Fund Representative) Mr Robert Poyser (Co-opted) Dr Susan Neave (Co-opted) Mr James Palmer (Co-opted) Mr Mike Robson (Co-opted)

Miss Lucy Duckworth (Co-opted) Mr Stephen Deas (Retires 2023) Mrs Helena Anderson (Retires 2023) Ms Gail Cahill (Retires 2023) Mrs Karla Vickers (Retires 2024)

Miss Pamela J Martin (Hon Social Secretary) 85 Ancaster Avenue HULL HU5 4QR Tel: 01482 442221 Email: pjmartin@pjmartin.karoo.co.uk

Revd. Canon Jonathan Baker (Vicar of Beverley Minster) The Minster Vicarage Highgate Beverley HU17 0DN Email: vicar@beverleyminster.org.uk

Friends of Beverley Minster Parish Centre 38 Highgate Beverley HU17 0DP

E: friends@beverleyminster.org.uk W: www.beverleyminster.org.uk/the-friends Facebook: The Friends of Beverley Minster Instagram: friendsofbeverleyminster

The Friends’ Annual Report is compiled by John Phillips and designed by Mervyn King 48

Contents

Chair’s Report

Programme Secretary’s Report

Pamela J Martin

October Weekend Programme

Friday 6 October – Sunday 8 October 2023

‘Visit to Bridlington Old Town’

SATURDAY 7[th] OCTOBER at 2.00pm

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

3.15pm

St John of Beverley Annual Lecture

SUNDAY 8[th] OCTOBER at 5.30pm

FRIDAY 3[rd] November 2023 at 2.00pm

'New perspectives on Beverley Minster'

‘The Minster and St Mary’s as Landlords: Church Property in Beverley’

'The Medieval Roofs of Beverley Minster Reconstructed and Dated'

‘The Magnificat stall but not of the Archbishop's yet’

2024

Saturday 6[th ] January 2024 at 6.00pm

EPIPHANY ORGAN RECITAL

BOOKING ENQUIRIES TO:

Vicar’s Report

Membership Secretary’s Report

Current members: 448 (17.7.23)

New Friends

Deaths

Report by the Director of Music

Report by the Minster Surveyor Simon Delaney BSc (HONS) FRICS C. Build E FCABE Building Surveyor to Beverley Minster Old Fund

John Phillips

Roger Lewis

St John’s Tombstone - John Phillips

Translation:

Aspects of Pilgrimage at Beverley Minster

Jonathan Baker

Auction of Surplus Goods and Materials

Martin Needler

Ave atque Vale

John Phillips

Independent Examiner’s Report

Financial Review

Summary of Results

Reserves

Investments

Bequests and donations

Annual General Meeting Agenda 2023

A G E N D A

AGM Minutes 2022

MINUTES OF THE ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING OF THE FRIENDS OF BEVERLEY MINSTER HELD ON 8TH OCTOBER 2022.

Matters arising – none

Outgoing Chairman’s report 1 April 2020 to 31 March 2021 (Roger Lewis)

Secretary’s Report – John Phillips

The Minister’s external environment

Social Secretary’s report : Pamela Martin

Study Day

Evenings in June

Coach Tour

Vicar’s Report: - Jonathan Baker

Adoption of the new Financial Policy

Election of Officers

The remaining officers, Secretary, Programme secretary, Membership

Election of New Members of the Council.

Any other business.

Election of Honorary Vice president:

Members of the Council 2022-2023