The Feoffees and Nominated Trustees
As a non-royal, interdenominational ‘peculiar’ Chapel no finances are received from any church organisation. The Chapel Feoffees and Nominated Trustees are entirely responsible for ensuring that there are funds to maintain this historic building.
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In 1575 the people of Warminster were able to buy the Chapel, and in 1592 an indenture was drawn up appointing '12, 10 or eight of the principal honest and discreet men of the parish of Warminster' to administer it. They are known as 'Feoffees' (pronounced fee-fees).
There are currently eight Feoffees and four Nominated Trustees who meet regularly throughout the year. Their service to the Chapel, together with the generosity of the people of the town, Warminster Town Council and Wiltshire Council, have preserved the building for posterity.
Warminster’s first female Feoffee, Heather Parks, was appointed in 2021 bringing her knowledge and expertise from her previous role as Warminster’s Town Clerk . This important change to the historical appointment of men reflects the diversity of the town's population, showing inclusion and modernisation of the chapel's custodians.
The Feoffees
Kerry Bishop
Feoffee
St Lawrence Chapel Organist
Why did you become a Feoffee?
My father, Desmond Bishop, had been appointed a Feoffee way back in the 1960s. He owned an electrical business in Warminster and rewired the Chapel as part of his duty to the town. Sadly he died at the age of 47. I have been touched by his public service and wish to use my musical talents for the benefit of the wider community.
What do you enjoy about being a Feoffee?
I am inspired by the peace and tranquility of the Chapel building, which has emerged as an oasis for both mental and spiritual refreshment in the centre of the town. Our weekly communion service has proved to be truly ecumenical, attracting a real cross-section of worshippers. As a musician and organist I feel that I can add an ‘extra layer’ to this very special public space.
More about Kerry...
A native of Warminster, Kerry has lived in the town with his family for many years. After studying music and drama at London University and Middlesex Polytechnic he has taught at schools in London and Salisbury, and here in Warminster where he was Head of Music at Warminster School for 25 years.
Kerry and his wife Lyndy (a violinist) are well-known musicians who have been associated with many local amateur choirs and instrumental groups. As conductor of Frome Amateur Operatic Society (now FMTC) since 1982, and latterly Bath Gilbert & Sullivan Society, Kerry has staged over 125 shows ranging from comic operetta and pantomimes to South West amateur premieres of Mary Poppins and Chitty Chitty Bang Bang!
In recognition of his talents and commitment to charity fundraising through concerts and shows, Kerry received a Lifetime Achievement Award from NODA in 2008. He is organist for the River Were Benefice in our vicinity, including the Minster Church of St Denys and our Chapel.
Cllr Andrew Davis
Why did you become a Feoffee?
In 2007 I completed a term of office as the Mayor of Warminster. I was approached by the then Chairman, Philip Howard, who asked if I would like to become one of the Feoffees, explaining their role and their responsibility for the upkeep of the Chapel on behalf of the people of Warminster. I was very honoured to have been asked and accepted the role wholeheartedly.
What do you enjoy about being a Feoffee?
I have been a Feoffee of the Chapel for very many years now, and still enjoy being involved in the decision-making process with my fellow Feoffees about the future of the Chapel and how we can maintain this historical building.
More about Andrew...
I am a lifelong resident of Warminster. Interestingly, I have lived in the same house my whole life (third generation). I have run my own carpet business in Warminster for over 40 years and I am a Town and Wiltshire councillor.
Feoffee and Chairman
Why did you become a Feoffee?
My father, David Frostick, was previously a Feoffee. I was always interested in the wide range of projects undertaken to repair, improve and develop the Chapel. I was keen to get more actively involved, particularly with project management. After an interview with the Chairman, I was asked if I would like to become a Feoffee. I gratefully accepted and have been focused on supporting the Chapel ever since.
What do you enjoy about being a Feoffee?
Understanding that the Chapel is such a special place to some many people. It has been a huge privilege supporting the hard work and dedication of so many people to protect this historic Chapel for future generations.
More about Ian...
I've been a lifelong resident of Warminster. I'm married with two grown-up daughters and two granddaughters. For almost 40 years I have worked locally at Lyons Seafoods selling prawns and seafood to the UK major supermarket chains.
Dan Keene
Feoffee and Vice-Chairman
Why did you become a Feoffee?
I became a Feoffee in 2019 after being asked by the previous Chairman, and have been involved in the maintenance and care for many years by helping wherever I can, and changing many a light bulb over the last 20 years!
What do you enjoy about being a Feoffee?
I really enjoy 'giving something back' to Warminster as the Chapel is actually owned by the townspeople. Having worked and been in business in the town for most of my life, it's nice to keep the traditions going for future generations to enjoy.
More about Dan...
I have lived in Warminster for most of my life (40ish years), and have had a few businesses in the town. Currently I am the owner of TAPhouse in George Street, as well as owning a chimney-sweeping company. Both of these keep me busy, and when I do get a spare moment I love taking in the wonders beyond the town centre and going for walks with my wife Becky, in our amazing surrounding countryside.
James Landry
Feoffee
Why did you become a Feoffee?
I was invited to join by the then Chairman
What do you enjoy about being a Feoffee?
I like being part of a team responsible for a beautiful building that belongs to the people of Warminster regardless of their religious belief. I also like seeing the Chapel used to raise money for local good causes.
I have lived in Warminster since 1976 and am married to Helen. I am an ex-marine engineering officer and company director, I like reading, DIY and motorhoming. In my role as company director I built the local Lyons Seafood factory and offices. I have travelled extensively worldwide helping to set up International standards in carbon footprinting, sustainability, ethical trading and anti-slave labour.
More about James...
Heather Parks
email: Treasurer@stlawrence-chapel-warminster.co.uk
Feoffee and Treasurer
Why did you become a Feoffee?
I became interested in the Chapel following my appointment to the position of Town Clerk for Warminster, in 2005. I was approached by David Pollard, the then Chairman, asking how the Town Council could support the upkeep of the Chapel as they urgently needed funds to repair the clock.
I was able to signpost the Feoffees to funding opportunities but suggested that Curfew Cottage was made habitable to rent out again and be used as an income stream. Suggestions were followed up and the clock and cottage improved. One grant supported the installation of an automatic winder for the clock which, if I remember rightly, cost in the region of £6k.
My initiation into the workings of the clock was a guided tour by David, when he made me climb the tower steps in three-inch stilettos to inspect it! During my tenure as Town Clerk, members of the Town Council and I attended and supported many services within the Chapel as well as various events, such as the making of the tapestry cushions when we all put in a stitch or two.
In 2017 I was asked to become Treasurer, which I accepted, and this was later followed with an invitation to become the first female Feoffee in 2021.
What do you enjoy about being a Feoffee?
I just love the history of this little space within the town centre which is such a peaceful place within the busy High Street. I felt that I could bring the skills and contacts I had in my career to assist the team of Feoffees in keeping us valid and up to date whilst protecting the fabric of the building for future generations.
More about Heather...
I moved to Warminster in 1977 from Grimsby, working in Lloyds Bank before taking up the role of Town Clerk in 2005. After retiring from the Town Council in 2016 I clerked for Sutton Veny Parish Council and was a locum for other councils who needed support until retiring fully in 2024. My husband Bill is a local County and Town Councillor, and we are both involved in and interested in local politics. I have one daughter and two grandsons who are a big part of my everyday life.
I love the arts in all forms. I used to play the cello and piano and would have loved to have taken this further into university, but it was not to be. Now I love to listen to a diverse range of music as well as take in live concerts. Travel is big on my agenda, and I still have plans to visit Australia again and find time to go to Canada and New Zealand.​ Whilst never being very good at sport generally, I love to swim and watch a good game of snooker, tennis and rugby.
Ray Shorto
Feoffee
Why did you become a Feoffee?
I had been a PCC member of the Minster Church of St Denys for many years and had taken an active role in the running of the church. Canon Roger Sharpe asked if I was willing to stand as a Feoffee and then proposed me to keep the Minster’s presence within the Feoffees alive.
What do you enjoy about being a Feoffee?
I like keeping the Chapel alive and open all week for people’s prayer and meditation. I am interested in the town’s history and have written a history booklet for the Chapel. I have also organised services, mainly the Boxing Day carols, for many years including leading some of these.
More about Ray...
Many people will know me as the secretary and treasurer of the skittles league. I started ‘sticking-up’ at junior school age. I then entered the first mixed team when women were allowed to play. My other interests include travel in Britain and abroad as far as Bali, Hong Kong and Vancouver Island. Gardening is another interest. I have a large vegetable plot at home and have 16 grandchildren who take up some of my time when they visit. I also enjoy my life in this town and the area with country walks around the hills and the riverside. The history of Warminster is also of interest. I have republished the two Daniel history books and written three picture books mainly around the early 20th century. With my interest in photography, I have helped in the ‘bestselling’ The Astronomical Significance of Stonehenge booklet. I have also done many charity collections, some in my childhood, from which I have been awarded a 50-year service badge from the Poppy Appeal.
Ray Mills
Feoffee
Why did you become a Feoffee?
For a few years now I have carried out various maintenance tasks within the Chapel and Curfew Cottage. When a Feoffee position became vacant I was approached by the Chairman of the Feoffees who asked if I would like to take up the role. I jumped at this chance because I feel I have many qualities that would benefit the upkeep and running of the Chapel.
What do you enjoy about being a Feoffee?
I love working on, and being involved in, such a beautiful building. Because the Chapel is owned by the town, I also felt it was an opportunity to give something back to the community. I regard it as an absolute privilege to be asked to contribute to the upkeep of this town-owned asset.
More about Ray...
Being from a military family, I moved to Warminster in 1973. I completed my secondary education at Kingdown School and went on to take an apprenticeship in Carpentry and Joinery. I then took a degree in Building Management and have had jobs, both home and abroad, as a Clerk of Works on many building and civil engineering projects. I now work as a self-employed maintenance technician, but will be cutting back in July 2025 when I reach retirement age.
I am married to Vron (who is now Secretary of the Chapel), and between us we have three children and six grandchildren who take up a significant amount of our spare time. Any remaining time is spent enjoying travel to various parts of the globe.
Our Nominated Trustees
In 2021 the Feoffees asked members of the local community to become Nominated Trustees to ensure the voice of the community is involved in the decision making of a building that is owned by the people of Warminster.
Cllr Stephen Kirkwood
Warminster Town Council
Phone: 07300 935704
Why did you become a Nominated Trustee?
I asked the Town Clerk if I could take on the position of Nominated Trustee to the Chapel as the representative of the Town Council following the retirement of the previous representative, Cllr Denis Brett.
What do you enjoy about being a Nominated Trustee?
As a town councillor, I am a representative of the people of the town of Warminster. In this role I feel I have a duty to look after and protect our local heritage and buildings, and to encourage business to the town, to see the town thrive and prosper. St Lawrence Chapel is just one of these important buildings whose situation within the town is of great significance to the people of the town, now and in the future, not only as a place of worship but also as a centre where all faiths can come together under its welcoming banner.
More about Stephen...
I am a retired water technician/officer, who worked for a company that installed, maintained and operated water treatment plants for the Ministry of Defence estates, including recording, sampling potable water and wastewater, pollution incidents, and protecting water courses, working with contracting companies and organisations that were also tasked to deliver the end result.
After retirement, I continued to be involved with environmental issues, volunteering with the River Fly Partnership/Freshwater Biological Association and the Wiltshire Wildlife Trust in a nationwide, 30-year project that is recording the health of our rivers, lakes, streams and their tributaries, as well as the wildlife in and around them.
I have been a Town Councillor since the local elections tin May 2025 and the Chairman of the Parks and Estates Committee from 1June 2025.
My interests include the environment, history, architecture, astronomy, local affairs, IT, reading, travel, and the preservation of our countryside.
Rev'd Susan Foster
email: revd.susanfoster@gmail.com
Phone: 01985 213456
The Minster Church
St Lawrence Chapel and Minster Church Liaison
Why did you become a Nominate Trustee?
On my licensing as the Vicar of Warminster and Rector of the River Were Benefice of Churches, I was invited to be a Nominated Trustee of St Lawrence Chapel and what a joy this is, to be part of a rich history of the Chapel, as we respond to contemporary society.
What do you enjoy about being a Nominated Trustee?
More about Susan ...
There is something special that comes with leading worship in the intermediate space of the Chapel. Whether it is the regular Prayer Book Communion Service on a Wednesday morning, or the joyous Harvest Festival in October, there is a real sense of continuity and connection to those who have worshipped in and loved this beautiful building over the centuries.
I enjoy art both as a practitioner, teacher, and prolific gallery visitor – the creative arts are, for me, as essential as oxygen. In recent years I have taken to icon writing. During my theological studies with The Cambridge Theological Federation I began a fascination with religious icons, writing several papers on 'Praying With and Writing Icons’. I find praying with and the creative process of writing icons help lift me out of the ordinary into an experience of the new creation; a joy I share with others.
Rev'd Lorraine Dobbins
email:
Phone: 01985 215270
Warminster Churches Together
Sheila Pomeroy
Friends Nominated Trustee and Chapel Sacristan
Why did you become the Chapel Sacristan?
Many years ago I was asked if I would take over the role, and it was a privilege to agree.
The role of the Sacristan is to ensure everything is prepared for the clergy before the service commences, assist at the altar and then finally clean and replace everything for the following service. The collection is counted and recorded in the service register, along with the number of communicants. I keep stock of all that is needed in the vestry which includes the purchase and collection of candles from Charles Farris at Mere.
At the appropriate church festivals, the altar frontals and lectern falls have to be changed to the colour that is required. Due to the awkwardness and weight of this task, I am thankful to have Harriet Andrews, a Friend of the Chapel, to assist.
I now have Elaine McNicholas assisting with the sacristan work and we take the duties in turn. I am very thankful for Elaine.
What do you enjoy about being the Chapel Sacristan?
What I love about the Chapel is community. It is a very special place for our town and the people who are travelling through to sit and be still. This is emphasised by the comments in the visitors' book.
I have seen many changes. The Feoffees and Friends have worked tirelessly and it is a joy to have a vestry, kitchen and toilet.
Every Wednesday it is a pleasure to welcome the congregation who choose to worship in this special place.
More about Sheila...
I have lived in Warminster since 1974, I am married to John, and we have three daughters. My home, that John worked very hard on building, is where my heart is. I only worked in volunteering roles when my children were growing up. I was at Warminster Hospital for 28 years with the sweet trolley, and Warminster Link Scheme for over 15 years.
I am still currently a Lay Pastoral Assistant at St Denys The Minster Church and Assistant Church Warden, secretary and volunteer at Warminster and District Foodbank.
I enjoy using my organisational skills in supporting other charities.
St Lawrence Chapel Broderer
Lesley Fudge
St Lawrence Chapel Broderer
I moved to Warminster in 2007. I am married to Chris, and our two daughters, their husband/partners, three grandchildren and a grand-dog all live in Warminster. I am a retired senior operating theatre nurse manager with a 40-year career in the NHS. I was the co-founder of Friends of African Nursing (FOAN), a charity which works with the Ministry of Health in African countries to provide professional training for preoperative nurses.
I am a traditionally trained (Royal School of Needlework) technical embroiderer with a main interest in goldwork, particularly ecclesiastical, ancient and modern. This was something that I could offer as a specialist support to the Chapel, repairing and conserving the Chapel textiles. After dabbling in many arts and crafts, embroidery has become my main hobby which I thoroughly enjoy.
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As a keen reader, I am particularly interested in medieval and Tudor history, but enjoy a wide range of genres.