Farmers' buying group helps parishes save money

Parishes and clergy within the Diocese of Norwich are reaping the benefits of buying heating oil and other ancillary items through Anglia Farmers.

With a purchasing power in excess of £100 million per year, Anglia Farmers attracts keen prices for its members. While the main focus is on agricultural inputs such as agrochemicals, fertilizer, seed and animal feed, the group also sources a wide range of ancillary items such as building supplies, fuel and electricity.

It is the ancillary items which attract non-farming businesses and individuals to become associate members of the group.

The Reverend Canon Richard Bowett, Diocesan Secretary in the Diocese of Norwich, said:

"As President of the Royal Norfolk Show last year, The Bishop of Norwich visited the Anglia Farmers stand. I followed up his initial exploration and now the Norwich Diocesan Board of Finance has been accepted as a member. Within this membership our parishes and clergy can set up sub-accounts. Nearly 50 sub-accounts have been established already and feedback is good."

The Archdeacon of Lynn, the Venerable Martin Gray, was one of the first subscribers:

"I buy heating oil for personal use and stationery for my office work. Anglia Farmers provide a rapid service and are very helpful. I've found the prices very good too."

Jim Morley, treasurer of St Andrew & St Peter Church in Blofield, purchased a new oil tank through the group:

"We had to replace our existing tank with a bonded one to meet new regulations and we saved nearly 20% by buying it through Anglia Farmers. We are also buying heating oil through them. Apart from better prices, we also get at least a month's credit which is useful and we don't have to spend time looking for the best price. It could take me half a morning to order a tank of oil. The Anglia Farmers' service is very easy to use."

Ray Sanders who sits on the parish council at St Mary's, Happisburgh is sourcing electricity:

"The church boiler packed up two years ago so we decided to switch to electric heating. Our bills were increasing so we asked if Anglia Farmers could help. It's early days, but it looks like we'll save £100 a year and that's the equivalent of several coffee mornings! We're considering other purchases too."

For more information visit www.angliafarmers.co.uk .