A Ledbury church has been recognised for its commitment to being eco-friendly.

Ledbury Methodist Church has been awarded the Eco Church Silver Award.

An oak plaque was presented to church members by Ellie Chowns, Herefordshire Council’s cabinet member for environment and economy.

She made the presentation during a service led by Rev Graham Thompson, the president of the Methodist Conference.

The theme for Rev Thompson’s sermon was the need to ‘Walk the Talk’, and the award shows Ledbury Methodist Church have commited not only to talking about the climate emergency, but also actively taking steps to “tread lightly” on the earth and reduce their carbon footprint.

READ MORE: Ledbury church will provide warm space for those struggling to heat homes

Regular town litter-picks, writing to their MP about river pollution, running quarterly Swap Shops, auditing their lifestyle and cycling to their summer picnic led them to achieve the coveted Silver Award.

The oak plaque has now joined the Bronze Award on the wall outside the church. 

A spokesperson for the church said members won’t be resting on their laurels and are aiming to achieve gold standard, the highest award in the scheme.

The Eco Church Award scheme encourages churches to take action to address the climate emergency.

There are three levels of awards - Bronze, Silver and Gold, and points are awarded in various categories (Buildings, Global and Community Engagement, Lifestyle, and Worship).

Ledbury Methodist Church gained its first award, Bronze, in 2021.

The church, in Bye Street, has also been providing a warm space for those who need it throughout the winter months.

As well as a warm welcome, people are offered soup, beans on toast and drinks for free.

They are also welcome to use the church wifi, charge their mobile phone and use a computer. Visitors can also access information on support groups around Herefordshire as the church is a Talk Community Hub.

“Why are we doing this?” said Rev Phil Warrey. “Because we can’t bear the thought of people sitting cold, lonely, and hungry in their homes, and we are called to show our love and care.”