Parishioners of St Paul's Church, Healey have come out in force for an evening of community hymn singing to show their support for a local pub which was recently 
damaged by fire.
The evening entitled "Sing Hymns and Drink Beer" took place at The Black Swan in Fearby. Curate, the Revd Nick Morgan said, "The Black Swan had a fire a few weeks ago which left one half of the building looking a bit forlorn, although they've remained open for business while the damage is being repaired….so a community sing-song sprang to mind. The good folk of St Paul's were keen to join in with the hymns and beer idea and were supported by neighbours and members of other congregations in the Masham Group of Churches."
Several favourite hymns were sung, with diners and guests at the Black Swan joining in. And while the singers took a break the Masham Handbell Ringers also entertained while a raffle was drawn from one of the Black Swan's collection of chamber pots, and a pineapple was auctioned..
The evening also raised £93. Nick (pictured left with the pineapple) said, "We're grateful to Sean and his staff for their hospitality. It was a really fun evening which people will talk about for quite a while..”
Nick added, “The Masham Group of Churches are committed to taking the Christian faith out into our communities. North Stainley church is holding an outdoor All Souls' service in the village's community garden and there is a community nativity play planned to take place in the pub car park at the Bruce Arms in West Tanfield in early December."