A Stroke of Generosity: Suffolk Church Warms Hearts to Fund a Green Future
In a delightful fusion of art, community, and environmental stewardship, a Suffolk church is forging an innovative path toward a greener future, fueled by the generous donation of a renowned local artist. St. Mary’s Church in Woodbridge, seeking to install a £200,000 low-carbon heating pump, launched its “Help Heat Our Church” appeal with a bold centerpiece: a raffle for an original oil painting by celebrated artist Maggi Hambling. The response has been breathtaking, with the sale of £10 tickets raising nearly £15,000 so far—far surpassing the initial £10,000 goal—as the chance to own Hambling’s vibrant work, Fireworks Above the Sea, has captivated the public imagination. This artistic offering, donated by Hambling after she heard of the church’s plight, represents not just a potential prize but a powerful symbol of community investment in preserving a historic space for generations to come.
The success of the raffle has provided a significant and heartwarming boost to the ambitious project. With £100,000 already allocated from church funds and an additional £30,000 raised prior to the raffle, the campaign is now within striking distance of its target, hoping for installation by autumn. As Nick Cottam, chair of the Friends of St. Mary’s, told the BBC, the initiative has “captured people’s imaginations,” positioning the church to be a local pioneer in sustainable heating. The upcoming draw on March 5th will not only crown one lucky winner with a beautiful piece of Suffolk artistry but will also mark a pivotal moment in the church’s journey—transforming a single act of artistic generosity into a communal triumph for heritage, innovation, and faith.
