History

The villagers of Ashton have worshipped here in St Barbara's for almost 1000 years and the churches of Ashton and nearby Beckford have been linked since the 8th Century; Ashton church was mentioned in the Domesday Book. The dedication to St Barbara, patron saint of armourers, gunners and blacksmiths, is an unusual one and first appears in the 18th Century. Over the centuries, St Barbara's has evolved into the church you see today. The oldest parts date from Norman times, represented by the South doorway with its characteristic rounded arch. The Tower, which houses a fine ring of six bells, was begun in the 13th century. The Chancel was rebuilt in 1624 by Sir John Franklin, then Lord of the Manor. The striking Arts and Crafts stained glass windows at the East end of the church date from the late 19th/early 20th Centuries.

A booklet The History of St Barbara's Church has recently been published.

See also details of Memorial Inscriptions in St Barbara's

More details about the history of St Barbara's from this website

Download a short illustrated Tour and History of St Barbara's Church (Please note this is a large 10MB PDF file)

Today

Since 1985 Ashton has been a member of the wider Beckford Group Parish (Church of England) which also includes Beckford, Overbury, Teddington, Alstone and Little Washbourne. The church is open every day from 9.00 am to 6.00 pm (or dusk in winter) and all are welcome to come in and enjoy the atmosphere of peace and centuries of worship. In November 2008 the Beckford Group became part of the Bredon Hill Group of Churches.

As well as regular services at which everyone is welcome, there are special services for Festivals and other significant events in Ashton's year. St Barbara's also serves the community for Baptisms, Marriages and Funerals. The church is fortunate to have a regular organist and choir. There are refreshments and a friendly chat after morning services.

St Barbara's relies on your support for its worship and its fabric. If you would like to be involved in the activities of the church in any way, please contact the churchwardens. The most effective means of donating to the church is by Regular Giving, and our Regular Giving Secretary would be very glad to hear from anyone who would like to contribute.

Website of the Bredon Hill Group of Churches

Further information about our parish from A Church Near You website

View or download this month's Beckford Group Parish Magazine

Charitable Giving: St Barbara's Church aims to support a number of charities throughout the year, with special collections at various services and events, or by donating the collection from the United Parish Worship communion service which takes place in our village twice a year. In 2009 a total of over £1500 was donated, please click here for details.

Download a copy of our illustrated 2009 Stewardship Presentation (Please note this is a large 8MB PDF file)