As the sun sets on the quaint village of Little Massingham, a unique and fascinating event is set to take place at St Andrew’s Church. On Saturday, August 9, the church will be hosting a special bat evening, inviting locals and visitors alike to come and learn more about the tiny residents that call the church home. The event promises to be an unforgettable experience, offering a rare glimpse into the secret lives of these mysterious creatures. With the help of expert bat handler Philip Parker, attendees will have the opportunity to discover the fascinating world of bats and get up close and personal with these incredible animals.
St Andrew’s Church is a Grade I listed building, steeped in history and character, and it’s also home to a remarkable four species of bats. Over the years, the church has been the subject of a specialist bat count, which has revealed a thriving colony of Soprano pipistrelles, Common pipistrelles, Brown long-eared, and the larger Serotine bat. Philip Parker, an expert in bat conservation, will be delivering a short talk, sharing his extensive knowledge of these incredible creatures and providing insights into the lives of the bats that inhabit the church. With the help of live camera feeds and expert commentary, attendees will be able to watch as the bats emerge from their roosts, taking to the skies in search of insects and other prey.
As the evening unfolds, attendees will have the chance to explore the church, taking in its stunning architecture and rich history. The church, which dates back centuries, is a remarkable example of medieval architecture, with intricate stone carvings, stunning stained-glass windows, and a tranquil atmosphere that’s perfect for contemplation and reflection. Despite its beauty, however, the church is facing a significant challenge, having been placed on the Heritage at Risk Register due to the theft of its roof lead several years ago. The temporary felt roof that’s currently in place is nearing the end of its useful life, and the church is in need of urgent repairs to prevent further damage. The event is being held by donation, with all proceeds going towards the church’s restoration fund, providing a vital lifeline for this beloved community hub.
The bat evening is an event that promises to delight visitors of all ages, from children to adults, and everyone in between. Whether you’re a seasoned nature enthusiast or just looking for a unique and interesting experience, this event is sure to captivate and inspire. With its unique blend of education, entertainment, and community spirit, the bat evening is an event that’s not to be missed. As Rosemary Jewers from the church noted, “We’re looking forward to welcoming everyone to our special bat evening at Little Massingham. It will be a wonderful chance to learn more about these little creatures and watch closely as they leave their roosts. Philip will be giving us his expert knowledge throughout the evening, making this an event that will appeal to all ages and leave a lasting impression on all who attend.”
The event is scheduled to take place on Saturday, August 9, at 7 pm, and families are welcome to attend. Refreshments will be available, providing a chance to relax and socialize with fellow attendees while learning more about the fascinating world of bats. With its unique blend of education, entertainment, and community spirit, this event promises to be an unforgettable experience that will leave attendees with a newfound appreciation for these incredible creatures. Whether you’re a local resident or just visiting the area, this event is a must-attend for anyone looking to experience something new and exciting. So why not come along and join the fun, supporting a great cause while learning more about the secret lives of these amazing animals?
In conclusion, the special bat evening at St Andrew’s Church in Little Massingham is an event that promises to educate, entertain, and inspire. With its unique blend of expert knowledge, live camera feeds, and community spirit, this event is sure to delight visitors of all ages, leaving a lasting impression on all who attend. By supporting this event, attendees will be contributing to the restoration of this beautiful church, ensuring that it remains a vibrant and thriving community hub for generations to come. So why not come along and join the fun, learning more about the fascinating world of bats while supporting a great cause? The event takes place on Saturday, August 9, at 7 pm, at St Andrew’s Church, Church Lane, Lt Massingham PE32 2JT. Admission is by donation, and all are welcome to attend.
