A busy programme of village events is set to bring Purton together in support of communities facing poverty around the world.
Local supporters of Christian Aid have organised a week of activities to mark Christian Aid Week 2026, with everything from cake sales to concerts planned across the month.
At the heart of the effort is organiser Libbie Sheppard, who says the annual appeal is as much about community spirit as it is fundraising.
“It brings everyone together,” she said. “There’s a real sense of fellowship, and it’s all for a cause that reaches far beyond the village.”
The events begin with two cake sales, including one at Pips Café on Saturday 9 May, where donations of home baking are being welcomed. The following day sees breakfast served at the Methodist Church, alongside a dedicated Christian Aid service.
Later in the week, Pips will host a bric-a-brac sale running from 12 to 15 May, with home-grown plants also available. Volunteers will be delivering the familiar red donation envelopes to homes throughout the village.
Music will take centre stage on Saturday 16 May, when Faith Alive Vocal Ensemble performs its Just Believe concert at St Mary’s Church. The programme promises a mix of styles, from Renaissance pieces through to modern pop, with free admission and donations invited.
The fundraising effort will conclude with a Bank Holiday breakfast back at Pips Café on 25 May.
Money raised will support Christian Aid’s work overseas, including projects in Nairobi, where families facing extreme poverty are being helped to grow their own food through small-scale urban farming initiatives.
For organisers, the aim is simple: a local response to a global issue.
And if the line-up is anything to go by, Purton is unlikely to be short of support.
