On Sunday 14th September 2025 at Dorchester Abbey, Steve Vickars was one of fourteen people who received the award of the Fellowship of St Birinus. Steve was nominated by Rev. Gareth Miller, Rector of the Akeman Benefice and Area Dean of Bicester and Islip, for his work over several years as Tower Captain of St Mary’s Kirtlington, and in leading practices, training and recruiting – not only at Kirtlington, but also at other towers in the Benefice and further afield.
The Fellowship of St Birinus held its first meeting in May 2009 when the then Bishop of Dorchester founded the Fellowship with the support of the Rector of Dorchester Abbey. It is seen as a modest way in which people can be honoured who have given exceptional service in some way or other to their church and community over a number of years.
Members of the Fellowship receive a certificate showing why they were nominated, and a lapel pin badge showing the symbol of St Birinus.
