The history of Shenington’s Holy Trinity Church can be traced to the 12th century with its Romanesque chancel arch, though it was rebuilt and expanded significantly over the following centuries. The south aisle was added in the 13th century, with further remodelling in the 14th century (including new windows and a rebuild of the aisle) and a 15th century porch. The most recent major additions were the Perpendicular west tower, completed in 1504, and a major 19th century restoration that relocated the original chancel arch. As with all ancient churches, restoration is ongoing and we were delighted to help with fundraising alongside the Community Choir of Oxhill, Tysoe and Shenington (CCOTS) who performed a wide selection of songs in the first half, opening with ‘Boogie woogie bugle boy’ first recorded by the Andrews Sisters in 1941 and closing with the Coldplay song ‘Viva la vida’ a Spanish phrase that can be translated as ‘live life’. Fabulous singing and harmonies, thank you!

It was a lovely evening of singing – not least because the choir sang along with us in the second half and they sounded great! Our thanks to musical director Anna and the CCOTS choir for such a special evening and to the Reverend Alicia Baker, Rector of the Ironstone Benefice for her invitation to participate in this unique fundraising evening in aid of repairs to the church porch.