The Benefice of Cinderford with Littledean was formed in December 2010. The benefice covers Cinderford, Littledean, Ruspidge and Soudley and is part of the Forest South Deanery within Gloucester Diocese. The Benefice serves the community of Cinderford and the surrounding areas.
The benefice includes three parishes: St Ethelbert’s, Littledean; St John’s, Cinderford, Ruspidge and Soudley and St Stephen’s, Cinderford.
The three Parish churches within the benefice offer a variety of service styles according to a range of church traditions, but all are friendly and offer a warm welcome. Please look at the individual church pages for more information and service times or contact us for more information.
The Vicar of the Benefice is Mike Barnsley, who started his time here on 4 March 2011. Mike enjoys being situated at the heart of the Cinderford community at The Vicarage on Belle Vue Road. You may have seen Mike out and about around Cinderford and the Forest on his Harley. Mike would love to meet you for a chat or a prayer. Contact him on (01594) 822286 / 07903 436009 or send a message.
Clothes Swish
August 9, 2025We are hosting a Clothes Swish (Swap) on Friday 29 August at St Stephen’s Church (Belle Vue Rd, Cinderford, GL14 2AA). Drop off items: 12 noon – 4 pm Swish open: 6 pm – 8 pm Refreshments available, FREE entry. Tips to help make the swish run smoothly: The idea is to reduce clothing waste as well as help refresh wardrobes at a low cost!
Fairtrade Fashion Show
April 28, 2025The Fairtrade Fashion Show is just around the corner! There will be lots of fairly traded clothes, accessories and jewellery perfect for Spring and Summer; including some preloved items, one-offs as well as some available to order. Special offers for that night only! A RANGE of prices, to suit as many budgets as possible. Thursday 1 May, 7.00 pm – 9.00 pm (with catwalk starting at 7.30 pm). At St Stephen’s Church (Belle Vue Rd, Cinderford, Forest of Dean, GL14 […]
Spring Craft Fayre
March 13, 2025Spring Craft Fayre, Saturday 29 March, 10 am – 1 pm at St Stephen’s Church, Belle Vue Rd, Cinderford, Forest of Dean, GL14 2AA. Featuring a variety of stalls from local artisans, plus Fairtrade food and gifts from around the world. Delicious hot food & drinks, homemade cakes and much more… FREE entry and a very warm welcome for all. Super exciting range of stalls all confirmed and booked in for this event, including some fabulous return stallholders as well […]