The Parish Hall has become the home of the historic Candle Auction held every 3 years in the month of December. The auction only has one lot - the 3 year lease of Church Acre.

The auction takes place in December and is presided over by 3 incumbent’s - the vicar and 2 church-wardens. The auction is controlled by a candle and a nail. The nail is placed in the candle and the candle lit. Bids are made until the nail falls, the final bid securing the lease of Church Acre.

Only a few Candle auctions have survived across the country, it is believed to be about eleven, of which Aldermaston is one. They are always concerned with land tenure and annual leasing arrangements. You can find out more about how to run a candle auction in “The Customs and Ceremonies of Britain” by Charles Knightly (Thames and Hudson PB 1986).

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