RE your article (SA July 7) on Page 8. May I pay a tribute to Stratton Green Baptist Church, now sadly closed. Alas, we must now consider it to be yet another redundant church!

According to history this was one of the earliest non-conformist churches in the area.

Some years ago Rev Dr Fred Fuller, a local resident, compiled a booklet on the history of the church from its beginnings. Has anyone a spare or unwanted copy?

It was a vision of the late Rev Stanley Bown and a few dedicated members to replace the old building with a better, more modern church, as the old church needed to be replaced.

It was hard work in the 1930s, times were hard, money scarce, and many obstacles to be overcome.

This small group had faith, and with much hard work, the new building was erected and opened in 1934. Simple in design, it was attractive, light and airy. I was privileged to be a member for 73 years. In its short life – short for a church – good active work was accomplished.

Good, sound Bible teaching was given at one time to 100 children regularly attending the Sunday School in the 1950s.

Groups catering for young people were also very active, and ladies had a thriving mid-week meeting. Many people worked lovingly and willingly to maintain the work of the church.

Sunday worship was a very happy time of fellowship. I trust that there will be a role in the future for this historic part of Stratton St Margaret, once again bringing light and life to the local community.

Thelma Japlin, Midwinter Gardens, Stratton St Margaret