Ruth Clarke, a trailblazer for all sorts of issues, especially the representation of women and young people in the Church and for the ecumenical movement, died on 11 January aged 85.

A former Moderator of the General Assembly United Reformed Church (URC), Ruth was heavily involved with the creation of the Windermere Centre and served as its Assistant Director.

It was during her time there that one of her daughters, Hannah, died as a result of a bicycle accident. This led to the creation of the Hannah Fund, which supported people wanting to visit the centre and the Hannah Wing, a suite for disabled people on the ground floor of the centre.

Bored in lockdown? Then help us by digging out those old photos!

The United Reformed Church (URC) Communications Department is seeking photographs from URC members that represent the life of the denomination.

Using the theme ‘24 hours in the life of the URC’ (before lockdown or any activities during lockdown), we would like photos which cover any activity that shows what the URC does.

Congratulations to Alan King, an Elder at Barnet United Reformed Church, who was awarded a British Empire Medal for services to young people in the London Borough of Barnet in the new year honours list.

After joining the Boys’ Brigade at the age of eight, and then become a leader at 18, Alan became Captain of 1st Barnet Boys' Brigade and Girls' Association in 1977. He has served in this voluntary position for 44 years.

Alan says the award was unexpected.