The Church of St Mary & St Christopher, Panfield received the first prize and cheque for £300 from David Boyle, RCCE President. The churchyard has consistently scored highly in the competition over the years but Keith Sutton, MBE who collected the first prize was delighted with the result and was already planning some new work using the prize money.The competition is kindly sponsored by Lodge & Sons (Builders) Ltd of Stebbing and Essex Biodiversity Project (part of Essex Wildlife Trust) and supported by the Diocese of Chelmsford. Their support and generosity has ensured this unique competition continues to recognise and reward churchyards in Essex which are well-managed and provide a peaceful haven for both humans and animals.
Second prize was awarded to The Church of St Ethelbert, Belchamp Otten and third prize was received by The Church of St Nicholas, Kelvedon Hatch.
The Church of St Andrew at Wormingford and The Church of All Saints, Doddinghurst both received Highly Commended certificates.
