Celebrating 125 years

And on the Anniversary Weekend itself the celebrations will include a 'Dad’s Army' actor, a Broadway Musical and a special art installation in the church.

Less than 150 years ago the area where the Church of St Aldhelm’s now stands was next to a collection of small cottages, heathland and the occasional clay pit. No roads, no businesses and certainly no places to worship.

But during the next quarter of a century, the Parish of Branksome saw constant growth. And as it grew, so did the need for a church.

St Aldhelm's, dedicated to the first Bishop of Sherborne, was built to accommodate this growing parish in July 1894.

And to celebrate, the Church has planned a series of events which will include an hilarious audience with Dad's Army Vicar - Frank Williams!

The evening is billed as an entertaining trip down memory lane as Frank, who appeared in all the series of the popular televsion show, talks about his life, faith and the legendary TV series, and signs copies of his best-selling autobiography.

The 125th anniversary is also being celebrated by a special evening of singing and entertainment by St Aldhelm's Players. Entitled 'Broadway Comes To Branksome', the adults and children from the church, school and community will perform songs from the decades and musicals that were popular during the years the church has served the community.

A special anniversary art installation called 'A 'Peace' of Heaven' will also be on display in the church over the weekend of 12 to 14 July.

The various celebratory events will culminate in a special service on the Sunday led by Bishop Karen and followed by a Bring and Share lunch.