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.
Christmas Craft Fayre
August 9, 2025Our Christmas Craft Fayre will take place on Saturday 8 November, 10 am – 1 pm at St Stephen’s Church, Belle Vue Rd, Cinderford, 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… The perfect way to kickstart your Christmas shopping. FREE entry and a very warm welcome for all.
Christmas Tree Festival
August 9, 2025Our annual Christmas Tree Festival will take place between Friday 5 December and Sunday 7 December. At St Stephen’s Church, Belle Vue Rd, Cinderford, GL14 2AA. Trees decorated by a range of local businesses, individuals, charities, community groups and organisations. Decorations to purchase or make your own, refreshments, music, FREE entry and a very warm welcome! Twinkly lights & lots of festive atmosphere help to kickstart your Christmas season! If you’d like to get involved by having a tree, please […]
TableTop Sale
August 9, 2025TableTop Sale (just like an indoor carboot!) Saturday 30 August with a wonderful range of items. Come and search through and find anything from toys to clothes to household items to beautiful jewellery and so much more!!! There will be a mix of new and preloved, helping to save items from landfill, plus some beautiful handmade items. Perfect for picking up some bargains… Saturday 30 August, 10 am – 2 pm at St Stephen’s Church (Belle Vue Rd, Cinderford, Forest […]