St Andrews, South Tawton

According to the January edition of 'The Beacon' it has been agreed that the Benefice, which currently comprises Belstone with Sticklepath and South Tawton with South Zeal, is to be split: Belstone with Sticklepath joining Okehampton, and South Tawton with South Zeal joining Whiddon Down.

Click here to read an extract from the article in the January Beacon.

Quite strong feelings have been expressed about this division by some in the community.

Click here to read, by way of example, John Smart's letter published in the February edition of 'The Beacon'.

The communities within the Beacon Villages area are independent, but it seems to have been recognised for quite a while that it is to the advantage of all that each community cooperates with and supports the others. It has been a healthy and vigorous relationship

The principal question being asked is:

"Is it right, for the overall well-being and long term future of the Beacon Villages' communities, for the Benefice to be divided?"

What do you think? Does it matter? Should the decision be left entirely to the Church authorities? Should the views of those who rarely attend Church be taken into account? Is the issue greater than the interests of the Church? Have there been misunderstandings? Has there been sufficient communication and debate? What do you think should happen to the Benefice?

You can easily express your views, anonymously if you would prefer, by clicking here. You will not have to log in or do anything complicated to have your say. Just click and type.

The views of everyone, including the decision makers, will be most welcome.

Robin Tilley - 1st March 2007