Bishop to lead Thursford Songs of Praise

The Bishop of Norwich, the Rt Rev Graham James, is the guest speaker at this year's Songs of Praise at Thursford on Sunday September 28.

Once again the Wells, Fakenham and Holt Methodist circuit is teaming up with BBC Radio Norfolk to present the popular event which will feature favourite hymns both old and new.

The Fakenham Town Band and a special circuit choir will lead the singing. Danny Wakefield, the choir's conductor, will also play the Mighty Wurlitzer organ of the Thursford Collection.

 

The event was started many years ago by Thursford founder, the late George Cushing, who invited the local Methodists to hold the autumn service at the famous venue. In recent years Methodist minister and broadcaster Rosemary Wakelin has taken on the organisation and involved Radio Norfolk.

 

Tony Mallion from the station will once again host the event which will include a chat with Thursford's "Mr.Christmas", John Cushing who has maintained the tradition of holding the event.

 

Last year it featured the actor Mark Topping, as John Wesley, to celebrate the 300th anniversary of Methodism's founder.

 

"This time we want to get back to the familiar format with lots of hymns for everyone to enjoy" said Rosemary Wakelin.

 

These will include "Lord for the Years", written by the former Bishop of Thetford, Timothy Dudley Smith and Wesley's "And Can it Be ?" which is the choice of Bishop Graham, who comes from a Methodist background.

 

"It's always a great evening" said Tony Mallion. "I love being involved with it. There's nothing quite like 1200 or more people singing their hearts out, accompanied by both a band and theatre organ ! I'm looking forward to it".

 

Admission is by ticket only but they are free. They can be obtained personally or by post from BBC Radio Norfolk at the Forum, Millennium Plain, Norwich NR2 1BH. (Please send a stamped envelope and also state clearly how many tickets you require).

 

The café will be open at Thursford before the event starts at 6.30. People are asked to be seated by 6.15 ready for a prompt start.