Lorraine Screen heard from Colin Hurford and Hannah Scott about their Lee Abbey Devon experiences
This article was published in the September to December 2026 edition of Rapport magazine.
Colin’s story
Colin Hurford, a long-standing Friend of Lee Abbey, remembered his first visit (aged 14) to Lee Abbey in summer 1947, with his parents and brother. One of his earliest memories was being offered cold potatoes and beetroot after arriving late, around 8.30 pm, following a long journey. Colin’s mum gave two weeks of ration coupons for their visit. Colin thought the meals were adequate for the post-war context.
As a young man, Colin joined Oxford University work parties at Lee Abbey, paying 30 shillings a week to work half the day with the Estate Team, with the rest being free time. One of Colin’s most memorable visits was around 1957–8; suffering depression, he was encouraged by his vicar to go to Lee Abbey for a free holiday; a dear old lady provided the money for his train fare. Roger, the Warden, stayed up late playing chess with Colin. Frank Lake encouraged him to pray. After Jack Winslow and Roger laid hands on Colin and prayed, he returned to work as a curate.
Colin noted how the facilities have changed over the years – improvements that, added to the outdoor environment, views and walks, make stays very enjoyable. Recently, Colin discussed with Tom Collins (Lead Chaplain) whether thought can be given to promoting the Chapel more, as a special space for guests to visit outside of sessions – a place of prayer to wait on God, surrender and connect with him.
Hannah’s story
It’s amazing to see how God continues to draw men and women from around the world to spend time at Lee Abbey. Hannah Scott joined the Youth and Children’s Team in September 2025, and shared a little of her journey:
‘I am 21 years old, from Havant in Hampshire, and I have been on Community for nearly one year. I have learnt so much and had so many opportunities to grow in different skills, including (but not limited to) outdoor activities, teaching and leadership. A place like this is great for young adults to gain experiences in a variety of things in a loving environment.
‘Though that may have been part of God’s plan for me, it’s not what drew me here. Before I came, I had no idea what to expect, or concept of what it might be like; what made me apply was the subtle promptings of God. As soon as I joined, I felt at home. The unspoken sense of support is amazing to experience and (although we are feeling the stretch) the vision, work and relationships formed are very rewarding.’
It is a wonderful thing to celebrate and take time to look back over Lee Abbey’s 80 years: an opportunity to give thanks for all that has been, all that is and all that is to come. We give thanks to God in amazement and awe at his merciful and diverse provision for thousands of people’s lives. All praise to our awesome God, who continues to do immeasurably more than we ask or imagine. Glory and honour and power be to his name!
Rapport Jan–Apr 2027 will feature more photos and reflections on the 80th celebrations.
Lorraine Screen
Friends Secretary
On 12–14 June many Friends gathered to celebrate the 80th anniversary of Lee Abbey’s dedication, reflecting on what an exciting moment that must have been. In 1946 Lee Abbey Devon was dedicated to the glory of God and for ‘rekindling … fires of faith, prayer and witness’. We thank God for the many thousands of people who have encountered God here in Devon. The past mingled with the present, and we continue to tell the story through pictures and words.
