For over 75 years, Donald Gotts has been the guardian of the beautiful Harpley church, a stunning medieval church located in the heart of Norfolk, between King’s Lynn and Fakenham. This remarkable individual has dedicated his life to ensuring that the church remains open to visitors and worshippers, seven days a week, 52 weeks a year. His selfless dedication has been a beacon of hope and inspiration to the community, and his story is a testament to the power of faith and commitment. Born and raised in Harpley village, Donald has spent his entire life serving the church and the community, and his love for the church is evident in everything he does.
Donald’s journey as the church’s caretaker began when he was just a teenager, helping his mother with the daily task of unlocking and locking the church door. As he grew older, he took over the role from his mother and has since become an integral part of the church’s fabric. For decades, he has been the first one to unlock the door in the morning and the last one to lock it in the evening, ensuring that the church remains a welcoming and peaceful sanctuary for all who visit. His dedication has been unwavering, and he has hardly missed a day, even in the face of challenging weather conditions or personal struggles. Donald’s commitment to the church has been a source of inspiration to the community, and his selflessness has earned him the respect and admiration of everyone who knows him.
The Harpley church, with its stunning 15th-century door adorned with carvings of eight saints, a lion, and a stag, is a treasure trove of history and spirituality. The church has been a place of worship and solace for generations, and Donald’s tireless efforts have ensured that it remains a vibrant and inclusive community. As he hands over the huge iron key to a rota of volunteers, it marks the end of an era, but also a new beginning for the church. The volunteers will continue to build on Donald’s legacy, ensuring that the church remains open and welcoming to all who seek refuge, comfort, or inspiration within its walls. The church’s door, with its intricate carvings, has become a symbol of hope and faith, and Donald’s dedication has been the key that has kept it open for so many years.
The community came together to thank Donald for his years of service, and the Rev Karlene Kerr presented him with a framed picture of the church, his own key to the door, and a personal letter of thanks from the Bishop of Norwich, the Rt Rev Graham Usher. The Bishop’s letter was a heartfelt tribute to Donald’s dedication and faithfulness, acknowledging the impact he has had on the community and the church. The letter read: “You have been opening and closing the beautiful church in Harpley for every day of my life. Thank you for your dedication and faithfulness in serving Harpley Church and village. Your example of selfless, quiet dedication has inspired your friends and neighbours.” The presentation was a poignant reminder of the significance of Donald’s contribution and the impact he has had on the lives of so many people.
As Donald looks back on his years of service, he is filled with a sense of pride and accomplishment. He has seen generations of families come and go, and has been a constant presence in the community. His love for the church and the community has been unwavering, and he has given selflessly of his time and energy to ensure that the church remains a vibrant and inclusive community. As he passes on the responsibility to a new generation of volunteers, he knows that the church is in good hands. The volunteers are committed to building on his legacy, and ensuring that the church remains a place of worship, solace, and inspiration for all who visit.
In a world that is increasingly fast-paced and disposable, Donald’s story is a powerful reminder of the importance of commitment, dedication, and faithfulness. His selfless service to the Harpley church and community is a testament to the human spirit, and a reminder that even the smallest acts of kindness and devotion can have a profound impact on the lives of others. As Donald begins a new chapter in his life, he can look back on his years of service with pride, knowing that he has made a difference in the lives of countless people. His legacy will live on, inspiring future generations to follow in his footsteps and to dedicate themselves to serving others with the same love, care, and devotion that he has shown to the Harpley church and community.
