Chaceley

St John the Baptist church, Chaceley, stands to the west of the Severn, opposite to Deerhurst, on the east bank and five miles from Tewkesbury.  Together with the village hall (the former school), Chaceley church is the heart of the village.  The village boundaries extend to Forthampton in the north, Tirley to the south, to the river in the east, and to Corse Lawn in the west.

The church has an unusual Norman chancel arch, with a ‘devil’s-face’ keystone, probably of Saxon origin, and some thirteenth-century features, including the tower, with a small spire, which was re-built in the fourteenth century, when the south aisle was added.  A good deal of further restoration took place in 1882.  The church has a lovely peal of six bells, which at present can only be rung three to four times a year.  A fund has been started to restore them.  The church has a very welcoming and friendly atmosphere, and is kept in a good state of repair.  The churchyard always looks immaculate.  A new heating system was installed a few years ago, which is much appreciated by the congregation!

Throughout the year Chaceley holds special services, such as Patronal, Sea Sunday, Harvest Festival, and Remembrance Day as well as a Carol Service and the normal church festivals.

Chaceley is the smallest parish in the Benefice, with a population of around 100.  The majority of the land in the village is farmed or used for equestrian activities.  Many of the villagers are retired, but other work from home or in the surrounding towns.  There are several teenagers, but fewer than half a dozen young children in the village, sadly it is hard to get them involved.

The church is one of 20 listed buildings in the village.  The village sits within the flood-plain, and the residents are now well used to coping with periodic flooding.

The village pub is The Yew Tree, which is situated on the banks of the Severn, and well known in the surrounding area.  It welcomes children as well as adults.  Close to the pub, is the Avon Sailing Club (still so named in spite of having moved to the Severn in the 1960s).