CENTURIES old registers of baptisms, marriages and funerals will be out on public display in Tarrington’s Parish Church as part of the church’s Gift Day on Saturday (May 2).

The historical records, which date back as far as 1561, will be available to view between 10am and 4pm.

WWe hope that this will be of enormous interest to family history researches and that to look at the records in the church where the ceremonies took place will be an added bonus,” said Maurice Smith, one of the wardens at St Philip and St James Church.

“We know that family history is one of the most popular things on the World Wide Web and we hope this chance to see the real thing will interest web users as well as local people keen to research their own family history.”

Tarrington’s St Philip and St James Church dates back to the Norman period, 13th and 14th century, and is a Grade II listed building.

Things to look out for include both doorways, some original stained glass, a stone coffin and an effigy of a lady dated 1360. The church is part of the Ledbury bgroup of parishes.

The church’s Gift Day is an open day in the parish for everyone who lives there, not just regular church goers. It provides an opportunity to those who would like to support their local church. There will be lots going on, including music recitals and bell ringing. Refreshments will be available.

The church hopes that these attractions will bring in many visitors and parishioners who want to make a financial gift towards the care and development of this ancient parish church. The open day is from 10am until 4pm.