I cut through the churchyard. It is freezing, noticeable colder than the street.
No board outside the church, though lights on inside.
A man walks out of the church. I ask is it open? A sore point. He is not happy that he has been thrown out of his own church by a bunch of percussionists. I say I will chance it. He wishes me luck.
I walk in, no on says anything. Then when I take a picture, a woman ask me to leave, says someone might steal their percussion instruments. I cannot see how, when they are there. She is eating a takeaway, the smell permeating the church, another woman using her mobile.
I have often in the summer wandered in during rehearsals, no one ever objects. I am careful not to disturb the rehearsal. I am always made welcome, invited to attend the concert. They will explain who they are, what the concert is. Not this rude woman, I am asked to leave. These though were musicians on tour. Obviously full of their own arrogant self-importance.
I ignored the woman who has asked me to leave, made my way out at my own pace, stopping to write notes in the visitor book to say how appalled I was by their behaviour.
This incident raises important questions on the use of Farnham Parish Church.
I am pleased that is is open, unlike most churches which are locked, I am pleased that it is put to use, I would not expect to walk in on a concert in the evening without paying, and if rehearsal, I take great care not to disturb, but I take great exception to being asked to leave, especially by people who were showing disrespect to the church and those who use it, but acting as though they owned it.
Keithpp's Blog 
