Community festival to fund urgent roof repairs
Great Hale Church, close to Sleaford, will stage a free music festival called Roof Fest on Saturday 5 September to help pay for a new south-side roof. The church has secured planning permission to replace the existing covering with terne coated steel after persistent leaks were reported.
The one-day event runs from mid-morning until around 9pm, and organisers say all performers have given their time for free. There will be food and drinks on sale and donation buckets for visitors who want to support the repair project.
What to expect on the day
- Date: Saturday 5 September
- Start time: 11.15am
- Finish (approx): 9pm
- Number of acts: 10 local musicians and groups
- Entry: Free — donations welcome
Performers on the bill include solo singers and instrumentalists such as Nick Nova, Andy Stonestreet, Kiya Brown, Rick Huddleston and Carrianne Rogers. Also scheduled are duos Cover Two Cover and Whiskey Rose, plus bands including the Silver Lions Ukulele Band, the Rock School Bus Youth Band and The Eccentric Renegades.
“We have been working hard to raise funds to support the new roof,”
said churchwarden Elaine Huckle, describing the festival as part of a wider fundraising effort that includes the regular Tuesday Café. The café, now in its second year, has helped the congregation chip away at repair costs.
In addition to Roof Fest, another concert is planned later in the year with some proceeds being directed to the roof fund. Mezzo-soprano Elaine — who is also performing in that concert — will be joined by local pianist Liz Hill, and players Kate Morgan (clarinet) and Liz's daughter on recorder. That event, titled 'On Wings of Song', will take place at 3pm on 24 October. Tickets for the October concert are priced at £12, which includes afternoon tea; enquiries can be made on 01529 461704.
How the fundraising day will run
Organisers expect a family-friendly atmosphere with simple catering options and music throughout the day. Food offerings will include ploughman's lunches and barbecue items, and both soft and alcoholic drinks will be available to purchase. Visitors unable to pay entry are still welcome but are asked to contribute what they can to the roof fund.
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Event | Roof Fest — fundraising music festival |
| Location | Great Hale Church, near Sleaford |
| Date & time | 5 September, 11.15am–c.9pm |
| Cost | Free entry; donations requested |
The festival underlines how small rural churches often rely on local fundraising to maintain historic buildings. Roof repairs can be costly, and public events like this both raise cash and bring communities together.
Those planning to attend should expect a relaxed day of music and local hospitality. If you cannot make Roof Fest but would like to support the roof fund, the church has other events planned over the coming months, including the October concert offering a more formal programme of classical pieces.
