A BUSY time is coming up for St Andrew’s Church in Ipplepen as it celebrates its 700th anniversary.

Tomorrow, Dr Jon Maddicott, Fellow of Exeter College, Oxford, will be speaking at the church hall from 7pm about Walter de Stapleton, a 14th century Bishop of Exeter who was murdered by a mob and is now buried at Exeter Cathedral.

Later in the week, on Thursday, May 3 at 7pm the present Bishop of Exeter, the Right Rev Robert Atwell, will rededicate the high altar of St Andrews at a special eucharist service where he will also bless the church’s wall hanging.

The village May fayre takes place on May 5 from 2pm to 4.30pm at the village hall and will this year be a special 700th anniversary fayre.

After the church bells are rung in celebration, there’ll be the traditional cake stall and crafts and plant sale to keep people occupied while the more adventurous might like to climb the 107 steps to the top of the church tower which will be open to visitors.

Tickets can be obtained in the day or in advance by phoning Stephen Bryant on 01803 812066.

Church warden Madeleine Fedrick said: ‘There are wonderful panoramic views to be had from the top of the tower, but as it’s a steep spiral staircase you’ll need to be fit!’