Churchwardens:

Mr Brian Moody, Berwick Hall, The Causeway, Toppesfield, HALSTEAD  CO9 4DZ              237974 brian.j.moody@btinternet.com 

Mr James Blackie, Olivers, Gt Yeldham Road, Toppesfield, HALSTEAD CO9 4LS    01787 237642

blackiejames@hotmail.com

Resting on top of the hilly Toppesfield, the church tower of St Margaret’s can be seen for miles around. The church is the centre of a thriving community which turns to the church as a place of calm.

The splendid red brick tower of 1699 is a landmark on the horizon, visible for miles. In memory of a generous rector, Robert Wilde, it is highly individual with its round arched windows, obelisk pinnacles and semi-circular troughs between ‘battlements’. A brass and a figure of a cross-legged knight of c.1260 are apparently hidden under the organ.

The small village of Toppesfield sits on top of a shallow hill and as a result enjoys the position of having the highest church in Essex. Easy to reach, the traditional church is at the centre of the village, next to St Margaret’s CofE Primary School, the community pub, Post Office and shop.  Little Chestnuts Pre-school is held at the Village Hall.

The vibrant community enjoys getting together to celebrate events and socialise. Regular wine and cheese parties are held throughout the year, with traditional church services each week. The church, which is open every day, has an active choir and dedicated organist. The bells are rung by talented bell ringers.